Saving water

Our Commitment

Fresh water plays and essential role in the production and consumption of the products we sell. 70% of water resources worldwide are used within agriculture, the majority being for irrigation and the production of food. 20% is used by industry and 10% is used by households. Considering these demands, providing sufficient clean water for a growing world population is a central challenge for the 21st century.

As a food retailer, it is important to us to use water within our supply chain efficiently. We are committed to making changes which help to preserve and conserve natural water resources.

Our approach

Certification

We are working closely with our suppliers to improve the sustainability of water management in farming and food production through certification. 100% of our British fruit and veg suppliers will be LEAF Marque certified by the end of 2023. This means that they will have plans in place to manage water efficiently, for example by reducing run-off and pollution, protecting water sources and improving water quality.

Collaboration with industry

Through the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP)’s Water Roadmap, we are collaborating and coordinating with over 60 stakeholders across the food and drink industry to protect water resources that are critical for food supply, nature and local communities.

The Water Roadmap aims to deliver the Courtauld Commitment 2030 water target that 50% of the UK’s fresh food is sourced from areas with sustainable water management. It also aims to contribute towards UN Sustainable Development Goal 6 (availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all), protect and restore biodiversity, and help to achieve Net Zero goals through the implementation of nature-based solutions.

Collaboration with experts

Since 2022, we have been working with The Rivers Trust to improve water management in key areas of our eggs, poultry, root veg and soft fruit supply chains.

In December 2014, Lidl committed to Greenpeace’s Detox Commitment to largely eliminate the use and release of eleven chemical groups classified by Greenpeace as priority chemicals in its textile and shoe production by 2020. Waste water and sewage sludge in our production plants are tested for pollutants at least once a year to ensure that our chemical specifications are being implemented.

Risk analysis

We have mapped out our British fruit and veg supply base to understand where there might be water catchment areas facing risks such as water scarcity, low water quality or pollution. Over 1200 Lidl fruit and veg growers have now been mapped and risk-rated using the WWF Water Risk Filter.

Our goals

By the end of 2023, 100% of our (non organic) British fruit and veg suppliers will be LEAF Marque certified, ensuring efficient water management is a core component of their farm business.

From 2023 onwards, Lidl GB will be supporting The Rivers Trust to engage in 3 collaborative catchment projects in the UK as part of the WRAP Roadmap for water security.

By the end of 2025, high risk fruit and veg growers in Europe will be audited or certified through an accredited water scheme.

Our partners

Lidl is a member of the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) which has the goal of pursuing socially fair, ecologically sustainable, and economically beneficial water use. The AWS is the first global, international standard that measures water use at a location based on social, environmental, and economical criteria with an independent, verifiable framework.
We are continuing to work with certifications that have an explicit focus on water, including the Global GAP Sustainable Program for Irrigation and Groundwater Use .

Good to know

Our ‘Save Water’ label can be found on the back of packaging for selected products which require water to use them.

Every drop counts, so here are some tips for how everyone can save water at home:

Turn the faucet off while brushing your teeth. That can save up to 8l of water a minute.
Always run the washing machine with a full load (see the manufacturer’s instructions on volume) and wash at as low of a temperature as possible – it’s better for the climate. Often 30°C (86° F) is enough.
Showering instead of taking a bath also can reduce water consumption by up to two thirds. Don’t let the tap run when washing your hands.
Put fruits and vegetables in a bowl with water for a few minutes to wash them, and then let them drain in a strainer. You can also use the water to pour over your plants.