Marks & Spencer has revealed the progress of its Plan A activities in its annual ‘How We Do Business Report’, detailing a 20% reduction in food packaging, a 19% increase in energy efficiency in stores, 417m fewer carrier bags used last year and over £50m of profit invested back in the business.
The report details the progress of Plan A, M&S’ eco and ethical programme launched in 2007.
Three years on and 62 of the original 100 commitments have been achieved, 30 are ‘on plan’ to be achieved by 2012 and seven are ‘behind plan’ as a result of unexpected challenges. One, the use of bio-diesel, is on-hold until sustainable supplies become available.
Sir Stuart Rose, chairman of Marks & Spencer, said: “Plan A is making a real difference to the environment and for our customers, employees and people working in our supply chains. We’ve introduced products and services to help customers live more sustainably, increased our contribution to local communities and, this year, generated £50m additional profit which has been invested back in the business.
“We’ve made excellent progress, but there’s no time to stand still. It is clear that evidence of environmental damage and social inequality has increased since we launched Plan A.”
Plan A was extended in March this year to incorporate 80 new commitments and extensions to the original commitments. Progress on the new and extended commitments will be reported on in the 2011 How We Do Business Report.
Other headline achievements include:
33% less waste sent to landfill year-on-year;
40% of electricity sourced from ‘green’ tariff renewable supplies;
18%reduction in refrigeration emissions (compared to 06/07);
1.8m garments recycled through the Oxfam Clothing Exchange;
Packaging reduced by 36% on general merchandise products1;
84% of PET food plastic packaging made using recycled materials;
72% of wood used is Forest Stewardship Council, recycled or from sources which otherwise protect forests and communities;
Healthier food now makes up 38% of food products ranges;
91% of food products now meet FSA salt reduction targets;
Over £13.2m invested last year in community projects.
