Tesco has successfully reduced its glass usage by more than 300 tonnes across its entire wine range, marking a significant step in the retailer’s ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental impact. The company has collaborated with the Sustainable Wine Roundtable and its suppliers to introduce what it describes as “better, lighter” wine bottles.
Research from the Sustainable Wine Roundtable reveals that glass bottles account for approximately half of the carbon footprint of wine production. In response, the organization launched the Bottle Weight Accord, which aims to reduce the average weight of wine bottles across the industry to 420 grams by 2026. Currently, the average bottle weighs around 550 grams.
Tesco has exceeded this target, achieving an average bottle weight of just 410 grams. Looking ahead, the retailer plans to eliminate an additional 3,000 tonnes of glass from its wine range by 2025, encompassing both still and sparkling wines.
Jason Godley, Tesco’s director of beers, wines, and spirits, emphasized the importance of reducing unnecessary glass, stating, “Removing unnecessary glass is a crucial step in Tesco reducing its environmental impact.” He also noted that the industry’s long-standing association between heavier bottles and higher quality is a misconception, as the lighter bottles still deliver excellent quality wine at competitive prices.
Tom Waugh, grocery channel director for Concha y Toro UK & Ireland, a B Corp certified wine company, highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability. He added that Concha y Toro has worked closely with Tesco to reduce glass bottle weights in line with the targets set by the Bottle Weight Accord.
This initiative represents a significant contribution to Tesco’s ongoing sustainability efforts and the broader wine industry’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
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