BRC report urges retailers to step up action on biodiversity loss
The British Retail Consortium has warned in a new report that retailers must urgently address the accelerating loss of nature and biodiversity or risk undermining supply chain resilience.
In its flagship Planning for Nature report, the organisation reveals that three quarters (76%) of retailers have no targets on protecting nature. It also finds that half (52%) have yet to make public commitments, while two thirds (67%) do not have a data-led strategy. Barriers cited include limited budgets, difficulties in data collection, and challenges in engaging suppliers.
Subscribe to TRBHowever, nearly a third (29%) of retailers are in the process of developing public commitments, while a quarter (24%) have begun engaging their suppliers on nature. Around 29% are working on a dedicated nature strategy, and one in four (25%) say that protecting nature is a top business priority for the year ahead
The BRC said the report represents the start of the retail industry’s journey to halt and reverse nature loss by 2030, with the goal of achieving full recovery by 2050. It will continue to track progress and hold retailers to account.
Over the coming year, retailers will focus on developing practical nature policies, establishing standardised metrics, strengthening supplier engagement, and building the business case for nature, all with the support of the BRC.
Andrew Opie, director of food and sustainability at the BRC, said: “Despite the huge costs and pressures in supply chains, it is imperative that we maintain progress to protect and restore our environment.
“It is great to see such a number and variety of UK retailers stepping up to their responsibilities, working with their suppliers to make practical changes to reduce our impact on the environment, all the while maintaining affordability and choice for customers.
“We look forward to seeing the Government’s revised Environment Improvement Plans, and working closely with them and retailers to make further progress in this critical area.”
