Tesco has removed one billion pieces of plastic from its UK business in 2020. The target was part of Tesco’s commitment to tackle plastics through its 4Rs Packaging Strategy: remove it where it can, reduce where it can't, reuse more and recycle.

Tesco quality director, Sarah Bradbury, said: “Our own-label and branded suppliers have had a lot to contend with in 2020 so removing a billion pieces of plastic is fantastic progress. Our work to remove, reduce, reuse and recycle will continue into 2021 – there is no place for unnecessary or non-recyclable packaging in our business.”

Tesco was the first UK retailer to remove plastic wrapped multipacks from its stores and sell loose cans at the same price, a change that has saved 67 million pieces of plastic annually. In July, Tesco launched an online shopping service with Loop that delivers groceries in reusable packaging throughout the country.

Tesco has also met with 1,500 suppliers to let them know that packaging will form a key part of its decision-making process which determines what products are sold in stores. The retailer has made it clear that it reserves the right to no longer stock products that use excessive packaging or hard to recycle materials.

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