From veganfoodandliving.com
Lidl, in partnership with WWF, has committed to affordable plant-based options and carbon footprint labelling to boost sales and promote global sustainability
German discount retailer Lidl has set a bold goal to increase its plant-based product sales by 20% by 2030, compared to its 2023 results.
This initiative is part of its broader sustainability strategy, launched in collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
The retailer aims to align its offerings with WWF’s Planetary Health Diet (PHD) guidelines by 2050, a framework promoting environmentally conscious food choices.
As part of its “Conscious Nutrition” strategy, Lidl is leveraging WWF’s Planet-Based Diets Retailer Methodology to evaluate and expand its plant-based range.
This framework for developing more sustainable, health-promoting products focuses on “planet-based diets”, encompassing protein sources, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Senior Vice President of Quality & Sustainability at Lidl International Stefan Haensel noted, “The Planetary Health Diet offers a solid model that provides actionable recommendations without categorically prohibiting anything.”
Lidl’s vegan brand, Vemondo, already features over 500 products which play a key role in the retailer’s sustainability efforts.
To encourage consumers to embrace plant-based diets, Lidl is introducing affordability measures to make these products cost-competitive with animal-based options.
The retailer has also implemented carbon footprint labels on select items and developed hybrid products to encourage reduced meat consumption in those resistant to fully transitioning to plant-based alternatives.
Collaboration with WWF to drive change
This new commitment builds on Lidl’s five-year partnership with WWF which began in 2022 and spans 31 countries.
The partnership focuses on tackling global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and unsustainable consumption.
Mariella Meyer of WWF Switzerland commended Lidl’s work towards “meaningful change”, stating: “By prioritising plant-based options, Lidl demonstrates how retailers can drive food system transformation – key to tackling biodiversity and nature loss.”
The partnership is designed to help households make sustainable choices through accessible, environmentally friendly options.
Lidl has also achieved significant milestones, such as becoming the first UK retailer to receive the Vegetarian Society’s Plant-Based Trademark.
The role of global partnerships in sustainability
Lidl and WWF’s collaboration extends beyond product development. The partnership includes efforts to manage resources responsibly, reduce food waste, and safeguard critical ecosystems.
Christoph Pohl, Lidl International’s Chief Purchasing Officer, highlighted the importance of collective action, stating, “We can only overcome major global challenges such as climate change and nature loss by working together. That’s why we believe in strong partnerships to provide more sustainable choices.”
Lidl’s work with WWF also includes initiatives such as traceable supply chains, deforestation-free sourcing, and advocacy for conscious consumption as it aims to set a new standard for sustainability within the retail sector.
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