Supermarkets ‘must close substantial gaps’ in green progress to meet 2030 goals

Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy UK supermarkets must close “substantial gaps” across key areas of environmental impact to meet their 2030 climate targets, according to a report. The clock is ticking for people and planet but, within the food retail sector, the appetite is growing for action to shift our food system on to a sustainable footing Tanya Steele The report said most retailers have reported reductions in emissions from their operations, but overall progress on emissions from supply chains and products sold – which account for 95% of total emissions – is unclear or emissions have increased. “Today we welcome Aldi to WWF’s Retailers’ Commitment for Nature, where we’re working with UK food retailers to deliver shared solutions to tackle the devastating impacts of our food system on our environment – we urge all UK retailers to step up to this commitment and work with businesses across their supply chains to accelerate action. “However, retailers cannot do this alone: the UK Government must get on board, starting by urgently implementing long overdue regulations to meet its high-profile Cop26 promise to eliminate deforestation and conversion from UK supply chains and support WWF’s mission to bring our world back to life.” Giles Hurley, chief executive of Aldi UK, said: “We recognise that the food and drink sector has a huge part to play when it comes to taking steps to positively impact the environment.