Marks & Spencer sees savings through sustainability initiative

Marks & Spencer reported the results of three years working on the sustainability initiative Plan A. The reduction of food packaging (20 per cent), energy efficiency in stores (19 per cent increase), 417 million fewer carrier bags uses last year AND £50 million of profit invested back in the business from Plan A activities as noted in the ‘ How we do business report 2010’.

I'm happy to see that the sustainability efforts 'pay off', this is inspiring for other companies to follow!

The commitments made in 2007 in Plan A are on progress, 62 of the 100 have been achieved, 30 are on plan to be achieved by 2012, and seven are behind plan as a result of unexpected challenges.

Other headline achievements include:

• 33 per cent less waste sent to landfill year-on-year
• 40 per cent of electricity sourced from ‘green’ tariff renewable supplies
• 18 per cent reduction in refrigeration emissions (compared to 06/07)
• 1.8 million garments recycled through the Oxfam Clothing Exchange
• Packaging reduced by 36 per cent on general merchandise products1
• 84 per cent of PET food plastic packaging made using recycled materials
• 72 per cent of wood used is Forest Stewardship Council, recycled or from sources which otherwise protect forests and communities
• Healthier food now makes up 38 per cent of food products ranges
• 91 per cent of food products now meet FSA salt reduction targets
• Over £13.2 million invested last year in community projects

More information in the report ‘ How we do business’ from Marks & Spencer, released on June 10^th 2010.2010_Marks&Spencer_How_We_Do_Business_Report.pdf