Lidl, the discount grocery chain, has joined forces with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to launch a strategic partnership across 31 countries, aiming to promote a more sustainable future.
Lidl’s Global Sustainability Initiative
Operating over 12,000 grocery stores in more than 30 countries, Lidl has expanded its sustainability efforts through a partnership with WWF. The collaboration will focus on several key areas:
- Conservation and enhancement of biodiversity
- Responsible water resources management
- Climate protection via science-based climate goals
- Development and expansion of traceable, deforestation-free, and conversion-free supply chains
- Responsible sourcing of critical raw materials such as palm oil, soy, cocoa, tea, coffee, wood, and paper products
- Responsible sourcing of farmed and wild-caught seafood, including the protection of critical fishing grounds and stocks
- Advocacy for more conscientious, sustainable diets and consumption
- Reduction of food waste
Driving Sustainable Change in the Food and Retail Industry
Kirsten Schuijt, director general at WWF International, emphasized the crucial role of the food and retail sector in driving sustainable change. She expressed WWF’s pride in accompanying Lidl on this journey towards sustainability.
In addition to its own operations and value chain, Lidl will support various WWF conservation projects to protect the environment in the regions it sources from.
Building a Better Tomorrow
Joel Rampoldt, CEO of Lidl US, expressed excitement about the partnership with WWF. He highlighted Lidl’s commitment to providing customers with affordable access to healthy fresh foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables and other vegetarian, vegan, and organic options. He expressed confidence in the partnership’s ability to innovate and deliver on their goal of creating a better tomorrow.
Building on Previous Commitments
Lidl’s partnership with WWF builds on previous commitments to achieve a more sustainable future. For instance, Lidl released its first report on corporate social responsibility efforts last year, outlining efforts such as reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and setting responsible sourcing targets for critical raw materials. Lidl also partnered with the Global Seafood Alliance on a campaign promoting BAP-certified seafood’s positive contribution to consumer and environmental health.
