Sainsbury's pledges to cut plastic use in half by 2025

Sainsbury’s currently uses 120,000 tonnes of plastic packaging a year but believes a change in thinking is the only way to move the industry beyond its existing plans at reducing its plastic consumption.

Mike Coupe, Sainsbury's chief executive, said: ‘We have set ourselves a bold ambition because we understand that we urgently need to reduce our impact on the planet and to help drive change across our industry.’

The firm's plans include switching to alternative materials, using lighter-weight plastics and introducing refillable packaging at scale.

To meet its target Sainsbury's will focus on reducing the waste from plastic milk bottles, packaging for fruit and vegetables, fizzy drinks, water and juices.