Tesco’s latest net-zero goals have gained official approval from the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).
- The UK retailer aims to achieve carbon neutrality in its operations by 2035, and its value chain by 2050.
- Through its Planet agenda, Tesco focuses on product improvement, decarbonising transport, and reducing store emissions.
- Tesco has made notable progress, including adopting renewable energy and introducing electric HGVs.
- Group Chief Executive Ken Murphy reaffirms Tesco’s commitment to transforming business operations for sustainability.
Tesco has recently celebrated its latest net-zero commitments receiving validation from the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), marking it as one of the pioneering retailers in this endeavour. The UK’s largest supermarket chain is working towards carbon neutrality in its own operations by 2035 and across its entire value chain by 2050, aiming to align with the Paris Agreement’s goal of keeping global temperature rise below 1.5°C.
The company’s Planet agenda outlines six primary focus areas, including improving product sustainability, decarbonising transportation, reducing emissions within stores, promoting sustainable consumption, eliminating waste, and protecting nature. These initiatives are instrumental in Tesco’s comprehensive approach to reducing its environmental footprint.
Among its achievements to date, Tesco has transitioned to using 100% renewable electricity and introduced the UK’s first commercial electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in 2021. Additionally, the retailer has innovated in packaging by replacing traditional tray wrap packs of fresh mince with ‘pillow packs’, reducing plastic use by 70%. These efforts underscore Tesco’s leadership in sustainable business practices.
Ken Murphy, Tesco’s Group Chief Executive, expressed the necessity for substantial changes in the company’s operations in response to climate change. He noted the importance of transforming product production in collaboration with suppliers, optimising store and transport operations, and influencing customers towards healthier, sustainable choices.
Furthering its commitment to reducing plastic waste, Tesco plans to cease sales of six-pint own-brand milk bottles. This move exemplifies the continued drive to achieve sustainability goals, alongside the broader commitments outlined in their net-zero strategy.
Tesco’s validated targets signify a critical step forward in its ongoing sustainability efforts.
