A local, independent grocer in Washington built natural refrigerant cooling systems in place of traditional climate damaging refrigeration. The CO2 refrigerant rack systems installed are near-zero emission systems and were chosen instead of traditional refrigerants that inflict 3,448 times more damage to the environment. The CO2 system also avoids certain chemicals that leach into groundwater, protecting the crucial watershed for a growing population. The system upgrade permanently and immediately reduces refrigerant-related emissions by nearly 99%, with no risk of reversal. Natural systems can be cost-prohibitive–especially for small, local grocers. The Puget Sound Community Grocer Project allowed a capital constrained store to implement climate-friendly practices and join international organizations in the effort to combat climate change.