Aldi Outlines Plans To Boost Sustainability Efforts
The Aldi South Group’s goal to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across the company by 2050 has been validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).
The SBTi has validated that the following science-based emissions reduction targets submitted by the Aldi South Group conform with the SBTi Corporate Net-Zero Standard and the SBTi Forest, Land and Agriculture (FLAG) Guidance:
- Reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions 90% by 2035 from a 2021 base year.
- Reduce absolute Scope 3 emissions 90% by 2050 from a 2022 base year.
- Reduce absolute Scope 1 FLAG emissions 72% by 2050 from a 2021 base year, and absolute Scope 3 FLAG emissions 72% by 2050 from a 2022 base year. ALDI is one of the first retailers to set specific targets to reduce its FLAG emissions.
SBTi is a corporate climate action organization that enables companies to play their part in combating the climate crisis and set GHG emissions reduction targets in line with what is needed to mitigate global warming. As a part of Aldi South Group, Aldi U.S. will play a vital role in advancing progress on the aforementioned goals.
"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, CEO of Aldi U.S. "For instance, because our stores are stocked with 90% 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."
Additionally, the Aldi South Group is committing to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 52% by 2030 from a 2021 base year and Scope 3 emissions by 25% by 2030 from a 2022 base year. The group is also committing to reduce absolute Scope 1 FLAG emissions 30.3% by 2030 from a 2021 base year and Scope 3 FLAG emissions 30.3% by 2030 from a 2022 base year. The company has committed to no deforestation across its primary deforestation-linked commodities, including palm oil, cocoa, coffee, beef and wood fibre-based products, by the end of 2025. SBTi has validated these short-term goals.
Aldi will also focus on new partnerships and its existing industry-leading initiatives that target the largest sources of emissions, including:
- Purchased Products: With most of its emissions stemming from its supply chain, Aldi recognizes the imperative to partner closely with suppliers. Aldi will make further investments to decarbonize its supply chain by forming partnerships with NGOs, joining multistakeholder initiatives and funding on-farm pilot programs – with a heightened focus on its dairy and beef supply chains. As just one example, Aldi is a member of the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy's Dairy Sustainability Alliance and will continue to explore the interconnectedness between emissions reductions, nature and biodiversity and animal welfare. By participating, Aldi is committed to identifying potential solutions to reduce emissions from dairy in partnership with the broader industry.
- Upstream Transportation and Distribution: Aldi is partnering with third-party logistics providers to identify opportunities to use alternative fuel sources and electric trucks to reduce transport emissions.
- Refrigeration: Aldi is advancing progress on its goal to transition all stores to natural refrigerants by 2035 and continues to receive recognition from the Environmental Protection Agency for its industry-leading progress. Today, Aldi uses natural refrigerants in more than 700 stores, saving 60% of potential carbon emissions yearly.
- Electricity: Aldi is focused on reducing energy consumption, investing in energy efficiency in its stores, regional distribution centers, and offices and purchasing renewable energy. Today, 100% of its electricity comes from renewable sources.
