UK-based food retailer Tesco has recorded a 68% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions against a 2015/16 baseline, exceeding its previous 2025 target of a 60% reduction, according to its 2026 Sustainability Report.

As reported by Sustainability Online, the report also confirms that 99% of Tesco's private-label packaging by weight is now recyclable in the UK, while healthy food accounts for approximately 65% of total UK and Ireland sales, up from 58% in 2019.

Ken Murphy, Chief Executive of Tesco, said: "Ongoing global uncertainty has shown us this work isn't just the right thing to do; it's a business imperative. We remain as committed as ever to accelerating sustainable change and achieving net zero to build a stronger, more resilient food system for people and planet."

The report marks a strategic refresh of Tesco's sustainability framework. Fourteen commitments that concluded in December 2025 have been retired and embedded into company policy, including requirements for all shell and ingredient eggs sold in the UK and Ireland to be cage-free, and UK produce sourcing to be aligned with LEAF Marque certification. Six new and updated commitments have been introduced, focused on sustainable farming, decarbonisation, healthier diets, circularity, and packaging reform.

Murphy said the updated commitments "focus on the areas where we can have the greatest impact and accelerate change by leading and convening the food industry," with greater emphasis on the systemic shifts most needed across the food system.

Tesco acknowledged that not all 2025 targets were achieved. A goal to increase plant-based meat alternative sales by 300% by 2025 was not met, with the retailer citing market decline and shifts in consumer preferences.

Examine the full scope of Tesco's 2026 Sustainability Report and its updated green commitments in the complete article.