On the “Road to Zero Waste”: The companies of Schwarz Group are reaffirming their pioneering role in the circular economy by setting a new target. By 2030, 95 percent of all waste generated within the companies of Schwarz Group will be reused, recycled, composted or fermented.
An Ambitious Global Benchmark
The joint 95 percent target is part of the “Road to Zero Waste” initiative by the companies of Schwarz Group, which has already recorded successes: In the past fiscal year 2024, the percentage of waste reused within the companies of Schwarz Group already stood at 89 percent, which amounts to over 3 million tons. Now, the companies of Schwarz Group are resolutely taking the next step by setting an even more ambitious target of 95 percent by 2030. Simultaneously, they set an ambitious global standard by deliberately excluding thermal recovery with energy recovery (incineration, according to DIN SPEC 91436 definition) as a recycling measure. They therefore exceed the target standards of many competitors, which include thermal recycling. This demanding level is made possible by the PreZero circular economy division, which promotes the Road to Zero Waste within the Schwarz Group as a central strategic advisor. PreZero also supports external, well-known partners from business and professional sports in effectively implementing their own circular economy and “Road to Zero Waste”-goals.
“Road to Zero Waste” Sub-Target: Certification Pursuant to DIN SPEC 91436
The “Road to Zero Waste” target covers all waste generated in all stores, logistics centers, and administrative and production sites belonging to the companies of Schwarz Group. Waste generated within proprietary recovery and disposal facilities, as well as construction waste, is excluded.
Properly separating recyclables is indispensable, since it guarantees the availability of high-quality secondary raw materials. That is why the national companies of the Lidl and Kaufland retail divisions, as well as PreZero central locations, will be independently certified pursuant to the DIN SPEC 91436 standard. DIN SPEC standard makes the “Road to Zero Waste” measurable and supports organizations and companies with achieving this vision (no waste, no wastefulness).
