Asda has released its 2023 Brighter Living Report, detailing progress across its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives.
The report highlights a continued focus on reducing carbon emissions, increasing packaging recyclability, and offering healthier food options.
Asda reported a 7% reduction in its carbon emissions (scopes 1-3) compared to 2022, bringing the retailer's total reduction to 15% since 2020.
To further this progress, the company is now requiring its highest-impact suppliers to share sustainability data through the EcoVadis platform.
On the packaging front, Asda has increased the recyclability of its own-brand packaging to 96%, nearing its 2025 target of 100%.
Specific innovations include redesigned beef mince and steak trays, leading to reduced packaging and extended shelf life.
Additionally, recycled plastic content is being incorporated into packaging elements such as cheese lids.
Asda is also prioritising customer health via schemes such as the launch of the Health Menu, featuring more than 40 nutritionist-approved products.
The company has also revamped its 'Live Better' product labelling system and aims to improve the average health score of its food sales across branded and own-brand offerings.
Additionally, the report highlights Asda's commitment to communities facing rising living costs.
Initiatives such as the 'Kids Eat for £1' ($1.28) café programme have served more than three million meals while fundraising efforts for charities, including Tickled Pink and BBC Children in Need, saw record contributions.
Asda also continues to support FareShare, a food waste reduction charity, with a new partnership announced alongside Olio.
Asda announced a record £150m investment in its retail wages for 2024, solidifying its position as the highest-paying traditional supermarket in the UK.
Additionally, the company became the first UK-based supermarket to partner with DFN Project SEARCH, a programme aiding young adults with disabilities in transitioning to work.
Asda's sustainability efforts have been recognised by Sustainable Fitch, awarding the company a 3 rating for integrating ESG considerations into its business strategy.
“2023 was a big year for Asda, with major strategic investments delivered and the foundations being laid to build a bigger and better Asda," said Mohsin Issa, Asda co-owner.
"Our fourth ESG report outlines the progress we’ve made in the last year, with our new strategies and targets not only matching the ambitions of the business, but also tackling the areas that matter most to our customers and stakeholders."
