Tesco has reached its target of diverting 100% of waste produced by its UK business away from landfill almost a year a head of its original target.

The retailer said it had hit the mark as a result of measures to reduce packaging and increased recycling, working with waste management specialists.

Three years ago Tesco committed to find ways of diverting all its waste from landfill by 2010. This week, its entire estate of 2,315 UK stores as well as distribution centres and offices have achieved that goal.

“Climate change is the biggest challenge facing us today and businesses such as Tesco have a responsibility to provide leadership,” said executive director Lucy Neville-Rolfe.

“Tesco understands the value of developing new technology, which is why we helped launch the Sustainable Consumption Institute with a grant of £25m last year. As well as research and development, improving our own operations and helping customers to make easy, green choices are the best way to combat climate change.”

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