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Zeroing in on Waste

ALDI is committed to zeroing in on waste

As a major Australian retailer, we recognise the importance of contributing to a more sustainable future. Our waste diversion rate increased to 89% in 2024 (compared to 87% in 2023) and we continue to introduce new waste diversion programs and efficiencies.  

How will ALDI zero in on waste?

ALDI’s largest opportunity to reduce its contribution to landfill is through recovering food waste from our stores and distribution centres (DCs). The following food waste reduction initiatives are underway:  

  • Ensuring surplus, edible food from our stores and DCs is donated to food rescue organisations helping local communities and people in need.
  • Where food cannot be rescued for human consumption, we have a number of animal refuges and farmers that we donate to.
  • Where this is not possible, we are increasing the number of our stores who are able to dispose of it in a organics recycling bin.
  • ALDI has joined the Australian Food Pact. As a member of the Pact, ALDI will partner with End Food Waste Australia to support a more resilient food system across the entire value chain.

All stores and DCs are recycling clear soft plastic film, cardboard, and electronic waste. We are also using our store network to help customers recycle household waste through our battery recycling service.

How will ALDI zero in on waste?

Working with food rescue organisations

Across Australia, each ALDI store is linked to at least one food rescue organisation. We donated 16.8 million meals via Foodbank,  OzHarvest and local community food rescue organisations in 2024. ALDI works closely with these organisations to positively impact both our community and the environment. Learn more about our work with these organisations here.

Using recycled materials

We are passionate about recycling and continuously investigate closed-loop opportunities with our business partners. Our reusable shopping bags are made from 80% recycled material, 60% of which is recycled low density polyethylene (LDPE) pallet wrap from our distribution centres, giving the material a new life. See more information about our recycling efforts here.

ALDI is committed to the 3 Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle) and this principle extends beyond what is sold on our shelves. In 2024, we introduced 100% recycled plastic shopping baskets. The recycled plastic is certified by a third-party auditor as 100% post-consumer polypropylene. Made from materials like household waste and motorcycle parts, they give new life to items that could otherwise end up in landfill.

How you can join us in our mission towards zeroing in on waste

Now that you know a little bit more about how we’re achieving our goals, here’s how you can get involved. Zeroing in on waste is an ongoing commitment, but together we can create a more sustainable future.

1. Choose our ‘Market Buy’ products

We offer a ‘Market Buy’ range of fresh produce featuring seasonal fruit and veggies with minor imperfections. We have made considerable efforts to widen our specifications to support growers and minimise the amount of perfectly good fruit and veggies going to waste. Look out for 'Market Buy' products next time you replenish your fruit bowl or salad drawer.

2. Buy products made from recycled materials

Some of our Special Buys™ are made from recycled materials. For example, welcome mats made from old tyres, recycling bins made from recycled plastic, and reusable coffee cups made from recycled coffee husks. Check out the weekly ALDI Special Buys™ catalogue to see what’s on offer today.

3. Reduce your food waste at home

See our page on Zeroing in on Waste at Home for tips on how to reduce your food waste. We’ve also included some handy recipes for making the most of your leftovers.