Lidl, WWF Partner for Sustainability in 31 Countries

Key Takeaways

• Lidl and WWF announce a new five-year partnership focused on sustainability across 31 countries.
• The partnership aims to make sustainable shopping easier for customers and reduce the environmental impact of Lidl's supply chain.
• Key areas of focus include biodiversity conservation, responsible resource management, and promoting sustainable consumption.

Supermarket giant Lidl and the world's leading conservation organisation, WWF, have announced a new partnership. This five-year international collaboration will span 31 countries and prioritise sustainability throughout Lidl's operations.

The partnership represents a major step forward in Lidl's ongoing sustainability efforts. Both organisations share a common goal: empowering customers to make eco-conscious choices.

Christoph Pohl, Chief Purchasing Officer at Lidl International: “In our role as one of the largest food retailers, we are aware of our responsibility and our influence. We take responsibility with the aim of doing business within planetary boundaries. For Lidl, sustainable management is not only a question of attitude, but also the basis for the future viability of our business model.

"With the support and expertise of WWF, we will now take our commitment to sustainability to the next level. 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 work together to provide more sustainable choices.”

Kirsten Schuijt, Director General WWF International, adds: “The way we produce and consume food and energy is one of the leading drivers of nature loss and climate change. In order to halt and reverse what is the biggest crisis facing humanity today, we need bold and urgent actions towards changing our food and energy systems, and the food and retail sector has a big role to play in driving this change.

"As one of the largest retailers, Lidl has enormous international leverage to drive sustainable change in the food and retail industry. WWF is proud to accompany Lidl on this journey on which we will both support and challenge the retailer.”

By working together, Lidl and WWF aim to:

• Expand sustainable product offerings: Lidl customers will have increased access to products that minimise environmental impact.
• Reduce environmental footprint: The partnership will focus on tackling challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss throughout Lidl's supply chain.
• Promote responsible consumption: Lidl and WWF will collaborate on initiatives to encourage consumers to make sustainable dietary and shopping choices.

Building on Existing Success

This partnership builds upon past collaborations between Lidl and WWF in specific markets like the UK, Switzerland, and Austria. The new agreement expands this successful model globally, aiming for a greater impact on international sustainability efforts.

Key Areas of Focus

The partnership will address a wide range of environmental issues through specific initiatives in these areas:

• Protecting biodiversity and ecosystems
• Managing water resources responsibly
• Combating climate change through science-based targets
• Creating transparent, deforestation-free supply chains
• Sourcing key materials like palm oil and cocoa sustainably
• Promoting responsible fishing practices
• Encouraging sustainable diets and reducing food waste

Beyond the Supply Chain

In addition to internal efforts, Lidl will also support WWF conservation projects in key sourcing regions. This comprehensive approach aims to create lasting positive change throughout the company's global network.

The food retail business is taking a positive step towards a more sustainable future with this partnership between Lidl and WWF. Together, they hope to empower customers, lessen their influence on the environment, and advance ethical business practices globally.

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Source: Lidl