The Partnership has become the first retailer in the UK to have its net-zero science-based targets validated by the respected Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The body has rubber-stamped the Partnership’s bid to become net-zero across its own operations by 2035, and wider supply chain by 2050.“The achievement demonstrates the Partnership’s clear commitment to play our part to limit the global temperature rise to 1.5°C – as called for in the Paris Agreement”, JLP said.

The company, which owns department store group John Lewis and supermarket chain Waitrose, also claims the accolade of being the first retailer in the world to have validated SBTi science-based targets focused on greenhouse gas emissions originating from ‘forests, land and agriculture’, which make up part of its total emissions footprint alongside the energy used to run its stores and make its products.Marija Rompani, Director of Sustainability at JLP, said: “Reaching net-zero by 2050 means transforming our business in every way, from how we design our goods to last, how we and our suppliers power our farms, factories and stores, and how we make it easier for our customers to make more sustainable choices. “To be the first retailer globally to set forest, land and agriculture science-based targets gives us great pride. It will be the bedrock of our plans to protect and restore nature and tackle the climate crisis over the years to come.”Another element to reducing its emissions footprint is by prioritising circularity in how it designs products and services, including offering fashion rental for occasion and childrenswear. It’s also developing product standards for longevity, recyclability and use of more sustainable materials. Meanwhile, JLP said work is under way to “sharply decarbonise” and includes: a commitment to moving all its vehicles away from fossil fuels, transitioning larger vehicles to run on biomethane and smaller vans on electricity; where possible, converting the gas boilers that heat our stores to electric-powered heat pumps; procuring 100% renewable electricity across all its operations; and launching integrated energy efficiency insights on online John Lewis products, “so customers can see at a glance how much money they can save by choosing a more efficient product”.