Aldi has claimed a UK supermarket first with the removal of disposable barbecues from sale in all its stores.
The move is designed to help protect forests and wildlife and will also eliminate 35 tonnes of single-use packaging a year, according to the discounter.
“We are committed to reducing our impact on the environment and know that many of our shoppers are increasingly looking to do the same,” said Liz Fox, Aldi UK corporate responsibility director.
“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.”
Amanda Craig, director of people & nature at Natural England, said: “We welcome any step that helps people act more responsibly whilst enjoying the countryside, and encourage everyone to follow the Countryside Code when spending time outdoors.
“This includes only using barbecues in places where signs specify they are permitted to better protect people, property and wildlife.”
It is not the first move by a major UK grocer to address the environmental impact barbecues can have. Last June, Co-op stopped selling instant barbecues from stores within a mile radius of a UK national park, because of the risk of the devices causing wildfires.
At the same time, Aldi stopped selling disposable barbecues at its Buxton store, close to the Peak District National Park.
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