ALDI is putting itself ahead of the curve in its sustainability efforts, recently announcing its commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2050. This has positioned the retailer to be the first international grocer with validated targets from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
“There is a reason why ALDI is one of the only grocery retailers with SBTi-validated net-zero targets. We do things differently, and sustainability is no exception,” said Jason Hart, Chief Executive Officer. “For instance, because our stores are stocked with 90 percent ALDI-exclusive brands, we can work more directly with our suppliers on emissions reductions. These industry-leading science-based targets are another way we are underscoring our commitment to operating sustainably and responsibly so we can keep offering quality, affordable groceries.”
The SBTi validated ALDI’s ambitious goals, including a 90 percent reduction in absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2035 from a 2021 base year, as well as a 90 percent reduction in absolute Scope 3 emissions by 2050 from a 2022 base year. Additionally, ALDI committed to reducing its Scope 1 and Scope 3 emissions related to forest, land, and agriculture (FLAG) by 72 percent by 2050.
According to a press release, these targets underscore ALDI's responsibility to combat climate change while continuing to provide affordable, high-quality groceries. To ensure immediate progress, ALDI pledged to cut Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 52 percent by 2030, alongside a 25 percent reduction in Scope 3 emissions. The company also committed to eliminating deforestation across key commodities like palm oil, cocoa, and beef by 2025.
ALDI will aim to achieve these goals by partnering with suppliers to decarbonize its supply chain and investing in alternative fuel sources for transportation. The company aims to transition all stores to natural refrigerants by 2035 and currently utilizes renewable energy for 100 percent of its electricity needs.
For more information, check out the retailer's Annual Sustainability Progress Report.
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