More Environmental and Climate Protection in Supermarkets: Trade and Policy in Demand
![Woman with shopping cart in supermarket in front of fruit aisle](https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/sites/default/files/styles/800w550h/public/medien/376/bilder/supermarkt_obst_olga_chernetskaya_fotolia_6060499_subscription_l_1.jpg?itok=DgZP8HVK&c=4213859cb3d890573eaa27920052b30d)
The big supermarket groups have a great influence on production conditions and consumer behaviour. Source: Olga Chernetskaya / Fotolia.com |
With their own organic brands, an expanding range of vegan products, more energy-efficient freezers, etc., German supermarkets have done a fair amount in recent years when it comes to sustainability. However, the potential for this is far from exhausted, as a recent UBA study shows. This study evaluates the environmental commitment of the eight food retailers with the highest turnover in Germany (ALDI Nord, ALDI Süd, EDEKA, Kaufland, Lidl, Netto Markendiscount, PENNY and REWE).
For example, animal products are advertised much more heavily than the more environmentally friendly plant-based alternatives. And particularly environmentally harmful products – such as goods imported by air – are still part of the range.
In addition to the trade sector, the UBA also sees a need for political action and recommends a policy mix of financial incentives and regulatory measures. For example, VAT rates for food should be adjusted according to ecological criteria, and minimum standards for the purchase of raw materials, such as soy for animal feed or palm oil, should be introduced.
The final report on the research project marks the starting point of the monitoring of developments and trends in environmental and climate protection concerning food retailing, with plans to continue this process in the coming years.