Irish retail group Musgrave has announced plans to reduce the carbon footprint across its operations by 70%, by 2025.
This is the equivalent of reducing CO2 emissions by 29,000 tonnes or removing 20,000 cars off the road, per year.
The new target is part of the company's ‘Taking Care of Our World’ sustainability strategy, which was launched by the minister for communications, climate action, and environment, Richard Bruton TD.
Bruton commented, "Industry must show leadership in responding to what is the greatest challenge of our time. The strategy being launched today [6 December] will be welcomed by consumers who are now looking to retailers to act in a way that is more conscious of their impact on the environment."
The Initiative
The strategy includes 25 initiatives that address plastics pollution, carbon footprint, food waste, and unhealthy food items.
The retailer aims to implement a host of measures, which include switching to recyclable, reusable or compostable packaging for all in-store private-label products, as well as fresh produce.
It will switch to 100% green electricity in all Musgrave facilities and direct zero recoverable waste to landfill.
The retailer will establish partnerships with re-distribution charities to ensure that food surplus is distributed among those most in need.
'Need For Change'
Musgrave chief executive, Chris Martin, added, "We have a responsibility to make a difference to the health and well-being of our people, partners, and consumers, whilst supporting the communities we serve and reducing our environmental impact.
"The need for change is urgent particularly in areas such as health, climate change, and plastics; Musgrave is committed to significant operational and behavioural transformation to leave a positive legacy for the generations that follow."
In September of this year, Musgrave was recognised by the government as one of the champions of UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Musgrave is already supporting independent retailers with expertise, investment, and training to make the necessary changes to minimise waste and maximise recycling.
The retailer funds household recycling bins, bottle banks, collection sites and recycling centres across Ireland to help consumers to segregate and recycle their waste.
© 2019 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
