Aldi has become the first UK supermarket to join a global coalition calling for a new Global Plastics Treaty to end plastic pollution.
More than 80 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 newly launched Business Coalition for a Global Plastics Treaty is calling for a global agreement to speed up progress towards a circular economy.
The ambitious proposal would mean that plastic would never become waste or pollution, while an effective economy would mean that all products and materials used would retain their value.
Headed up by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and WWF, the coalition’s collective vision will form the basis for future policy engagements with governments.
The endorsement of the Treaty and creation of the Business Coalition cements Aldi’s commitment to sustainable business operations.
Aldi UK’s plastics and packaging director Richard Gorman 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.”
Aldi announced its plans to roll out soft plastics recycling bins across 800 of its UK stores earlier today (Thursday 22 September). It expects to collect up to 1,000 tonnes of plastic a year by helping customers to recycle more and reducing plastic pollution.
