Peat-free Partnership campaigners are taking action to challenge supermarkets on the peat that is still being extracted from our climate-saving peatlands to grow supermarket fruit and veg.

Over 3,000 people have asked their supermarkets: what are you doing to remove peat from supply chains to save peatlands?

Waitrose respond to peat-free campaigners

Waitrose have led the way in other sustainability initiatives such as rewarding those with reusable cups and only selling peat-free bagged compost. But what does this mean for the hidden peat in their supply chains?

Read their full response:

“Thank you for your email and for your incredibly loyal custom over the past 20 years. We truly value customers who are as passionate about the planet as we are, and I appreciate you raising your concerns regarding the use of peat in our supply chains.
We share your commitment to protecting our peatlands and recognise their vital role in carbon storage and biodiversity. Please be assured that this is a key focus for us. We have already successfully transitioned to peat-free for the majority of our products. While we have not completely removed every peat-based product from our range, as we must balance ongoing customer demand with our sustainability ambitions, we are actively seeking out innovations to continue this transition.
Our goal is to lead the way in responsible sourcing, and we are constantly reviewing our practices to ensure we are doing the right thing for the environment. Your feedback is instrumental in that ongoing work.
Thank you again for holding us to account and for your continued support as we work toward these sustainability goals.”

What does this mean for the campaign for peat-free?

Supermarkets respond to public pressure and changes in purchasing habits. Waitrose shared that they are on their way to peat-free for the majority of products – but customer demand means that not everything is peat-free.

But how can we know if we’re buying a product grown in peat, if it is not labelled if it does, or doesn’t contain peat? We need greater transparency so the consumer can make an informed decision. Or better still, no peat at all within supply chains.

The transition to peat-free needs support both from supermarkets, to commit and invest in growers who are peat-free, and from the UK Government, to provide a commitment to growers that their transition will be supported and keep them on a level playing field with other growers.

How can I help?

Responses from decision makers such as supermarkets show that people power is creating change, but we need to hold them to account for the promises they make.

Stand up for peatlands and campaign for a peat-free future using Peat-free Partnerships resources for individuals.

Your voice is powerful – let’s save our peatlands using it!

Find out more about the Get Peat Out of Our Homes campaign here.