Value creation through recyclable materials: Schwarz Group companies set ambitious 95% recovery target
On the “Road to Zero Waste”: With a new target, the companies of the Schwarz Group are reaffirming their pioneering role in the circular economy. By 2030, 95 per cent of all waste generated across the Schwarz Group is to be reused, recycled, composted or anaerobically digested.
An ambitious global benchmark
The shared 95-per-cent target forms part of the Schwarz Group’s “Road to Zero Waste” initiative, which has already delivered results: in the 2024 financial year, 89 per cent of the total waste generated by the Schwarz Group – more than 3 million tonnes – was recovered. The companies are now taking the next logical step by setting an even more ambitious target of 95 per cent by 2030. At the same time, they are establishing a bold global benchmark by deliberately excluding thermal recovery with energy generation (incineration, as defined in DIN SPEC 91436) as a form of recovery for in-house waste. This goes beyond the standards adopted by many competitors, who include thermal recovery in their targets.
This demanding benchmark is made possible by PreZero, the Schwarz Group’s circular economy division, which drives the “Road to Zero Waste” initiative as a key strategic adviser. PreZero also supports high-profile external partners from the business world and professional sport in effectively implementing their own circular-economy and “Road to Zero Waste” goals.
Sub-target of the “Road to Zero Waste”: Certification in accordance with DIN SPEC 91436
The “Road to Zero Waste” target covers all waste generated at all stores, logistics centres, administrative sites and production facilities within the Schwarz Group. Excluded are waste arising in the Group’s own recovery and disposal facilities, as well as construction waste.
Correct segregation of recyclable materials is essential, as it ensures the availability of high-quality secondary raw materials. For this reason, the national companies of the Lidl and Kaufland retail divisions, as well as PreZero’s central sites, are independently certified in accordance with DIN SPEC 91436. The DIN SPEC makes progress on the “Road to Zero Waste” measurable, thereby supporting organisations and companies in achieving the overarching vision: no waste, no unnecessary consumption.