Tesco net zero targets validated after adopting 100% renewable electricity

Tesco is aiming to become carbon neutral across its own operations by 2035, and then throughout its entire value chain by 2050.

The retailer’s targets cover all greenhouse gas emissions connected to its operations, including those originating from forests, land and agriculture (FLAG).

Interim targets on the way to net zero have also been included in order to monitor overall progress. By 2032, Tesco aims to reduce energy and industrial Scope 3 emissions by 55% and Scope 3 FLAG emissions by 39%.

Planned actions to help achieve these goals have been separated across six areas: improve products, decarbonise transport, reduce store emissions, support sustainable consumption, eliminate waste and protect nature.

Tesco has already adopted 100% renewable electricity, while its fleet of delivery vans will be fully electric by 2030. It is also supporting its suppliers in putting their own net zero plans in place by the end of this year.

Tesco must transform to meet targets

Speaking after the targets were validated by the SBTi, Tesco chief executive Ken Murphy reaffirmed the group’s commitment to meeting its 2050 goal.

“It will require us to transform the way we run our business, from how we produce our products in partnership with our suppliers, how we run our stores and transport network, and how we encourage our customers to make healthy and sustainable choices,”​ Murphy said.

“We’ve led the way on action on climate change, from adopting 100% renewable electricity across the Group, to scaling innovations in our supply chains. We now must work even harder, in collaboration with our suppliers and partners, to achieve our goals. These ambitious targets, validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative, now provide us with a clear roadmap of action over the next ten years and beyond.”​

In other news, Tesco is trialling new packaging to reduce plastic usage and keep products in better condition​​.