The Schwarz-Group, that includes Lidl and Kaufland, has launched a comprehensive 360 degrees plastic strategy. It clearly defines plastic avoidance, improved recyclability and the promotion of sustainable packaging. In this context, Kaufland will reduce the consumption of plastics in all countries by at least 20 percent by 2025, will ensure the recyclability of the plastic packaging of its own brands, and will reject various sorts of plastics by the end of 2019.
A very hot topic at the moment is doing away with disposable straws. The Rewe-Group wants to be the first retailer in Germany to dispense with the sale of plastic straws in all of its 6,000 stores. On average, a straw is used for 20 minutes before it disappears in the garbage. They are also among the items most commonly washed ashore on beaches around the world. This action will save over 42 million disposable plastic straws per year in the future. Starting in the spring of 2019, the Group will offer alternatives, made of FSC/PEFC certified paper, wheatgrass or stainless steel.
Furthermore, in the fruit and vegetable departments, more and more alternatives are sought to the conventional plastic bags. At Tegut, eco-friendly reusable bags are now available for packaging apples, pears and more. These are for sale in packs of three, are washable and durable.