Report: UK’s Biggest Supermarkets Failing to Meet Their Own Climate Commitments

A new report by Feedback Global and The Food Foundation reveals that the UK's largest supermarkets have been making numerous environmental commitments every six days, but there is little evidence of significant progress. While retailers have set 600 commitments related to climate, emissions, land use, and sustainable diets, their effectiveness remains unclear. Emissions in supply chains make up 90% of total emissions, yet only four out of ten retailers are reporting progress specifically for the UK.

The report highlights the need for measurable targets and transparent reporting on sustainability metrics from supermarkets. The UK government's Climate Change Committee has advised a shift towards plant-based foods to meet climate goals, but supermarkets' commitments on sustainable diets lack measurable targets. With retailers admitting they require government support to achieve their goals, the report emphasizes the urgency of implementing mandatory, legally-binding standards for major food businesses.