As the UK gears up for the COP26 Climate Conference in Glasgow in November, retailers making greener choices now will make savings on running costs and also show customers that they are serious about sustainability, says advice on the UK Business Climate Hub, launched recently as part of the government’s Together for our Planet campaign.
“This is important advice which will help retailers play a vital role in cutting the UK’s carbon emissions,” states Andrew Griffith, the government’s Business Net Zero champion. “From offering customers more sustainable products to removing unnecessary packaging, these small steps can collectively make a big difference in helping us fight climate change and create a brighter and more sustainable future.”
Adds Richard Pennycook, chair of the Retail Sector Council: “Retail is a highly competitive industry, and the consumer benefits from great choice and value as a result. But when it comes to creating a more sustainable planet, the Sector Council is clear that we can do great things if we co-operate and share best practice. The UK Business Climate Hub and greenstreet.org.uk are go to places for independent retailers to find great tips on how to run their business more sustainably and appeal to their customers, who are more and more concerned to do the right thing for the planet.”
Advice for retailers includes:
-Offering customers more sustainable products to buy
Choose products made from recycled/ recyclable materials, with minimal or no plastic packaging, certified sustainable, which can be easily reused or recycled. Ask suppliers what they have available that fits these criteria, and research new suppliers.
-Buy local where possible
Stocking products made closer to home helps to support the local economy and community. Locally made or produced products can lower carbon emissions as they do not need to travel as far.
Think beyond products and consider sourcing locally for items such as shop or site fittings, furniture, packaging, repair services, marketing help.
-Remove or improve packaging
Reducing packaging or switching to more eco-friendly packaging, helps to cut both plastic pollution and emissions. According to a recent study, almost three quarters of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging.
Ask suppliers how non-essential packaging can be reduced when products are shipped. In relation to essential packaging, understand what can be reused and collected in the next delivery.
-Swap Shop
Run customer swap shops or be a collection point for items that are no longer wanted.
-Ask before you print receipts
In the UK alone, over 11.2 bn receipts are printed every year and 90% of them are lost, damaged or thrown away by consumers. If possible, email receipts to customers instead of printing.
-Cut Carbon Emissions
Commit to cutting carbon emissions in half by 2030 and to reach ‘net zero’ – putting no more carbon into the atmosphere than you are taking out of it – by 2050 on the UK Business Climate Hub.
Top: Retailers are being given a six point plan by the government to help them make greener choices.
