A TRIP TO the deli counter is a staple of life in Ireland. From builders to bankers, students to sous-chefs, all walks of life unite in the lunchtime rush.

And while we might not agree with each other’s sandwich fillings, we can all get behind the need to ensure that our choices aren’t harming the planet.

That’s why Centra have set a target for all their deli packaging – from sandwich wraps, to soup cups, to cutlery – to be 100% sustainable. That means reusable, recyclable, or compostable.

New compostable sandwich wrappers are one of Centra's sustainable innovations Centra Centra

To achieve this, they’ve come up with some innovative solutions. To date these have included 100% compostable (made from the humble potato peel) and reusable (made from 100% recycled materials) shopping bags. After being reused, the bags can ultimately be disposed of in the home brown compostable and green recyclable bin.

The initiative launched in 2020 helped cut the number of plastic bags heading for landfill by four million over a two-year period.

Now the focus is on the deli range. New products being rolled out include compostable sandwich wrappers for your lunchtime baguette; compostable salad bowls and soup cups; and reusable and recyclable knives, forks and spoons.

By the end of 2022, 92% of Centra deli packaging will be recyclable, reusable or compostable Centra Centra

These changes will help divert 234 tonnes of waste from landfill every year in Centra alone – approximately the weight of 57 elephants.

Already projects like these – which are being rolled out alongside other sustainability initiatives, such as a move to low-energy LED lighting in Centra’s 483 stores around Ireland – are having an impact.

At the end of 2021, 83% of the retailer’s deli packaging was recyclable, reusable or compostable. By the end of this year, the figure will be 92%. So the only thing you’ll have to worry about is your choice at the deli counter.

Centra is on a journey to 100% sustainable deli packaging as part of our commitment that by 2025, 100% of our own brand, in-store and fresh produce packaging will be re-usable, recyclable or compostable, along with reducing carbon emissions on our path to Net Zero by 2040, and creating jobs which support local communities – we’re investing in our shared future. To find out more, visit centra.ie.