Meeting Tesco Sustainability Requirements: A Guide for Suppliers

Tesco, one of the UK’s largest retailers, is leading the way in sustainability. With a bold net zero target by 2050 and a commitment to reducing supply chain carbon emissions by 60% by 2030, Tesco has established clear requirements for suppliers to align with its environmental goals.

For suppliers and brands already working with Tesco—or aspiring to—this guide explains the Tesco sustainability framework, the practical steps you can take to comply, and the opportunities to drive innovation while meeting their expectations.

Why Tesco Sustainability Targets Matter

Tesco’s commitment to net zero extends far beyond its own operations. Like many large retailers, the majority of its carbon emissions come from Scope 3 sources—those generated across its supply chain, from farming and production to packaging, transportation, and product use. Meeting these targets will require close collaboration between Tesco and its suppliers.

For suppliers, this is more than an obligation—it’s an opportunity. Aligning with Tesco’s sustainability framework can improve operational efficiency, meet the growing demand for sustainable products, and strengthen relationships with environmentally conscious customers.

For an introduction to Scope 3 emissions and why they matter, read our blog: What Are Scope 3 Emissions?

Tesco Sustainability Requirements for Suppliers

Suppliers working with Tesco are expected to follow a comprehensive sustainability framework that prioritises three key areas: emissions reduction, packaging and waste management, and responsible sourcing. These initiatives form the backbone of Tesco’s strategy to reduce its environmental impact while supporting suppliers on their decarbonisation journeys.

Measuring and Reducing Emissions

At the heart of Tesco’s requirements is the need to accurately measure and reduce Scope 3 emissions, which are often the most challenging to address. Suppliers are required to calculate their emissions using recognised standards such as the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and provide regular reports through Tesco’s reporting tools. For many, this process can be streamlined by using carbon management platforms like Zevero, which simplify data collection and ensure precise calculations.

Tesco suppliers are also expected to create detailed carbon reduction plans. These plans should outline specific actions for cutting emissions across critical areas, including sourcing, logistics, and packaging. Additionally, Tesco encourages alignment with science-based targets (SBTi), ensuring that reductions are consistent with the goals of the Paris Agreement.

Transportation is another major focus, as it remains one of the largest contributors to supply chain emissions. Tesco has called on suppliers to explore sustainable logistics options, such as route optimisation, reducing transport distances, and transitioning to low-emission vehicles.

Rethinking Packaging and Waste

Packaging plays a central role in Tesco’s sustainability goals. By 2025, Tesco aims to ensure all packaging is 100% recyclable, and suppliers are expected to follow suit. This involves adopting innovative materials and reducing the overall volume of packaging, particularly non-recyclable plastics. Beyond packaging, Tesco suppliers are also required to minimise waste throughout production and transportation, ensuring that any unavoidable waste is disposed of responsibly through recycling or composting rather than ending up in landfill.

These packaging and waste initiatives not only contribute to Tesco’s sustainability goals but also offer suppliers the opportunity to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and meet increasing consumer expectations for environmentally friendly products.

The Importance of Sustainable Sourcing

Sustainable sourcing is another cornerstone of Tesco supplier requirements. Agriculture, in particular, accounts for a significant portion of supply chain emissions, driven by activities such as fertiliser application, land-use changes, and methane from livestock. Tesco suppliers are expected to adopt regenerative farming practices that improve soil health, reduce emissions, and promote carbon sequestration.

Tesco also works with suppliers to ensure that raw materials, such as wood and palm oil, are sourced responsibly and meet sustainability certifications like FSC and RSPO. This commitment to transparency and ethical sourcing reinforces Tesco’s dedication to minimising its environmental footprint while supporting suppliers in building resilience and credibility within their supply chains.

The Challenges of Addressing Scope 3 Emissions

While Tesco’s requirements provide a clear framework, suppliers often face significant hurdles in addressing Scope 3 emissions, including:

• Data Collection and Accuracy: Gathering accurate data across a supply chain can be complex, particularly for smaller suppliers without advanced data management systems.
• Complex Calculations: Measuring Scope 3 emissions requires identifying relevant emissions factors, managing large datasets, and interpreting results—tasks that can be overwhelming without the right tools or expertise.
• Reduction Strategies: Without a clear starting point, prioritising reduction efforts can be difficult. Tesco provides guidance, but suppliers may need additional support to navigate this process effectively.

Why Meeting Tesco Sustainability Requirements Is an Opportunity

The Tesco sustainability framework is more than just a compliance checklist—it’s a blueprint for thriving in a low-carbon economy. Suppliers that align with Tesco’s requirements position themselves to unlock a range of benefits, from operational efficiencies and cost savings to increased consumer trust and market differentiation.

By investing in sustainable practices, suppliers can build stronger relationships with Tesco, future-proof their operations against regulatory changes, and gain a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.

How Zevero Can Help

Meeting Tesco sustainability requirements doesn’t need to be overwhelming. At Zevero, we specialise in helping suppliers:

• Accurately measure emissions, with a focus on Scope 3.
• Streamline carbon reporting processes to meet Tesco’s standards.
• Develop actionable carbon reduction plans aligned with science-based targets.

With Zevero, you can simplify emissions management and focus on what matters most: driving real progress.

Contact us to learn how we can support your journey towards sustainability and ensure alignment with Tesco’s goals.

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