How can supermarkets go green

Decisions made by supermarkets have huge sustainability implications, and can really make a difference in combatting the current climate crisis and working towards a net-zero future. In this article, Sarah Selley explores the way in which UK supermarkets are prioritising sustainability and how seriously we should take their pledges.

This will be achieved through tackling waste and encouraging sustainable practice in seven core areas, namely carbon emissions, water, plastic, recycling, food waste, diet and biodiversity. Practical changes include removing plastic film on fruit and vegetables, switching all store lighting to LED and expanding their ranges of meat alternatives, to name a few.

However, as the pledge does not extend to the supermarket's supply network, which accounts for most of its emissions, the scale of the commitment is not as impressive as first thought and may end up making a much smaller impact than necessary. Customers will still be able to purchase multiple tins for a reduced price, however they will be loose. In , Tesco removed all hard-to-recycle materials from its own-brand products and also informed 1, of its suppliers that packaging will be a key factor in deciding which products to stock in its stores nationwide.

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How Supermarkets Are Changing to Become More Environmentally Friendly The push to save our planet is reaching its peak, with both individuals and companies across the globe taking action to reduce their carbon footprint.

Scrapping plastic bags It was a step in the right direction when the government decided that all large shops must charge 5p for single use carrier bags. Cutting out cups and straws Some supermarkets, such as Waitrose, are removing any single use plastic straws and disposable coffee cups across all stores.

Paring down on packaging Without a doubt, all food is overburdened by excess packaging — often to an unnecessary level.