Aldi ban single use wipes and BBQs

Aldi has become the first UK supermarket to refuse to stock disposable barbecues due to environmental concerns.

The nationwide ban follows an Aldi Buxton store pilot project, which led to environmental improvements in the nearby Peak District National Park.

In a double announcement on becoming more environmentally responsible, the supermarket also confirmed it will no longer permit the sale of single use plastics own-brand wipes.

Aldi lines Mamia baby, Lacura beauty and household ranges will now only use 100% plant-based, biodegradable fibres.

In doing so the retailer will prevent the equivalent of a further 7,000 tonnes of single-use plastic from reaching landfill per year.

Aldi said the BBQ ban will remove approximately 35 tonnes of single-use waste packaging.

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The supermarket, which has almost 100 stores across the UK, has pledged to halve the volume of plastic packaging it uses by 2025. This will remove 74,000 tonnes of plastic from circulation.

Richard Gorman, Plastics and Packaging Director at Aldi, said: “Moving to biodegradable wipes is another step forward in our commitment to reduce plastic across our ranges.

“It’s becoming increasingly important to our customers that their everyday products are environmentally friendly, and we’re pleased that this move will help them on their journey.”

Discussing the Barbeque ban, Liz Fox, Corporate Responsibility Director at Aldi UK, said: “We hope customers can embrace our latest move and still want them to enjoy their summer picnics and barbecues.

"As an alternative, we would encourage customers to opt for more environmentally friendly and sustainable options such as mini portable barbecues, ensuring they are used responsibly.”

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