Aldi calls to end global plastic pollution through new coalition

Supermarket Aldi is backing calls for a new Global Plastics Treaty to end plastic pollution, becoming first supermarket in the UK to do so. 

More than 80 global businesses across the plastics value chain, financial institutions and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have committed to supporting the development of a legal UN treaty to end plastic pollution. 

The coalition is calling for an ambitious and effective global agreement to accelerate progress towards a circular economy in which plastic never becomes waste or pollution, and the value of products and materials is retained in the economy. 

This collective vision will form the basis for future policy engagements with governments through the newly launched Business Coalition for a Global Plastics Treaty, which will be convened by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and WWF. 

The endorsement of the Treaty and creation of the Business Coalition cements Aldi’s commitment to sustainable business operations. 

Richard Gorman, plastics and packaging director at Aldi UK, said: “Like all those in this coalition, we never stop looking for ways to reduce plastic waste. It’s important to our customers and it’s important to us as well. 

“Tackling the use of plastic is a global issue and requires a global response. Having a United Nations treaty, supported by businesses around the world, will be an essential step in solving this issue and we look forward to working together to achieve that.” 

Earlier today (22), Aldi announced its plans to roll out soft plastics recycling bins across 800 of its UK stores. It expects to collect up to 1,000 tonnes of plastic a year by helping customers to recycle more and reducing plastic pollution. 

“We are always striving to reduce plastic waste wherever possible, and we know how important this is to our customers,” Gorman said. 

“This rollout is a step in the right direction and provides our shoppers with an easy option to recycle their problematic soft plastic packaging in the UK.”