Twenty major retailers have signed a declaration to tackle the causes of climate change. Led by the British Retail Consortium (BRC), the declaration commissions the creation of a roadmap to provide retailers with both the guidance and support necessary to decarbonise.

Retailers are committing to cutting carbon emissions associated with their shops, distribution centres and logistics. Also, their supply chains. Environmental experts will conduct the research and publish in the form of a roadmap, along with a wider industry commitment in the run-up to COP26.

The work will build upon the Better Retail Better World campaign, whereby retailers have reduced their carbon emissions from operations by over one third since 2005.

Commenting is Peter Andrews, head of sustainability policy at the BRC. “Climate change remains one of the biggest threats to the planet. As we start to recover from the coronavirus pandemic, there is no better opportunity to build a greener more sustainable world. The expectations of society are shifting rapidly. Greater action from businesses is expected. Retail will lead the way.

“Retailers, suppliers and customers all have their part to play in reducing their carbon emissions. This roadmap will be the first step towards a better, more sustainable future. It will then be up to the wider industry and government to implement the recommendations it set out.”

For further information on the BRC, please click here.