German discount supermarket chain Aldi is set to gradually phase out the use of disposable bags across all its stores in the country by the end of next year.
According to the plan, the group’s ALDI Nord and ALDI SÜD divisions will implement the strategy in designated regions.
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The current disposable bags will make way for environmentally friendly reusable bags, which are expected to comprise more than 80% recycled material.
ALDI SÜD quality management and corporate responsibility group purchasing director Philipp Skorning said: "We are deliberately taking a step further and do not just omit plastic bags that are harmful to the environment, but also the widely accepted paper variants.
“Because of their higher energy and water consumption in production, as well as their lower durability, they do not offer a sustainable alternative."
Scheduled to be rolled out in October, the new multiway bag will be launched in stores in the Munich region by ALDI SÜD, while ALDI Nord will coordinate the initiative in the Berlin area before being taken to all stores of the group.
The new reusable bag will carry the ‘Blue Angel’ label, which is a German certification for products and services.
The company noted that the solution will be a cost-effective alternative to the existing disposable bag.
Equipped with a longer handle for additional comfort, the new bag is also larger and more stable.
In order to drive the usage of the recycled bags, the company is increasing the price for its disposable bags across Germany from 10¢ to 20¢.
