Tesco announces environmental strategy

Tesco Ireland has today announced the launch of its strategy on the environment and carbon reduction, the company’s commitment to minimise its carbon footprint and to help address crucial environmental concerns.

The plan will focus on recycling, packaging and sustainable energy use throughout the company’s operations.

The move will see in excess of 24,000 tonnes of waste recycled each year. Ireland’s leading retailer will also make a €30m investment to reduce in-store energy consumption by 50%. This initiative will see the introduction of more energy-efficient technology across the 95 store network including energy efficient ovens, refrigeration units, light timers and motion detectors. Energy Champions will also be appointed to all stores.

Speaking at the announcement Tony Keohane, chief executive, Tesco Ireland said: "As consumers, businesses and retailers we all have a role to play in addressing the environmental challenges that face us all.

"Today we are announcing a number of practical steps on how Tesco will be making a difference on these issues. This is not a short term measure and we will continue to adapt our way of doing business to ensure that these steps are sustainable not just for the present but for future generations as well."

The company plans to build the most environmentally-friendly store in Ireland by 2009. The new store design, at a location to be decided, will be the first ever supermarket in Ireland built from recyclable materials including wood, recycled plastics and other green materials.