Tesco’s net-zero targets have received validation from the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).
- The retailer is committed to achieving carbon neutrality in its operations by 2035 and its entire value chain by 2050.
- Tesco’s strategy focuses on key areas such as product improvement, transport decarbonisation, and waste elimination.
- The company has already implemented measures like using renewable electricity and launching electric HGVs.
- Chief Executive Ken Murphy emphasized transforming business operations to meet these climate goals.
Tesco’s ambitious net-zero commitments have been officially validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), a prominent global authority on climate target verification. The validation positions Tesco as a leader among retailers, marking a significant step in its environmental responsibility endeavours.
The retailer is steadfast in its mission to achieve carbon neutrality, setting 2035 as the deadline for its own operational emissions and 2050 for its complete value chain. These commitments align with the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting the rise in global temperatures to 1.5°C.
Tesco’s approach includes a focus on six primary areas under its Planet agenda: enhancing product sustainability, decarbonising transport, reducing store emissions, encouraging sustainable consumption, eliminating waste, and safeguarding nature.
The company has already reached several milestones, such as converting to 100% renewable electricity, transforming its home delivery fleet to reduce carbon emissions, and pioneering the use of electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) within the UK in 2021.
Tesco continues to innovate in packaging, exemplified by their switch to new ‘pillow packs’ for fresh mince, reducing plastic usage by 70%. Additionally, plans to discontinue selling six-pint own-brand milk bottles further demonstrate its commitment to reducing plastic waste.
Ken Murphy, Tesco’s Group Chief Executive, publicly stated the company’s unwavering commitment to its net-zero target for 2050, highlighting the necessity to overhaul business operations in collaboration with suppliers and to promote healthier, sustainable consumer choices.
Tesco’s validated net-zero targets represent a pioneering and responsible approach in the retail sector to address climate change.
