Carrefour, a leading global hypermarket chain introduced to the Middle East by Majid Al Futtaim, has announced a range of new "green" initiatives motivated by International Plastic Bag Free Day.

On July 3, shoppers at 28 Carrefour hypermarkets throughout the UAE and select supermarkets can avail of a two-for-one offer on reusable eco-bags. Priced at Dh2.75 ($0.7), the bags come with a lifetime guarantee and will be replaced free-of-charge at the customer’s request.

To help customers get into the habit of bringing their eco-bags with them on every grocery trip, Carrefour will be introducing a dedicated “Green Checkout” counter as a pilot project in hypermarkets located in City Centre Mirdiff, City Centre Me’aisem, City Centre Deira and Mall of the Emirates with more branches expected to follow suit by the end of 2018.

Efforts to provide plastic-free alternatives extend to the Carrefour’s online platform as well. On a trial basis, all orders placed via its website and delivered on July 3 will arrive in bio-based bags produced by Avani, a supplier that aims to address the world’s growing plastic concerns using innovative technology. The cassava-based bags are non-toxic, contain zero petroleum elements, certified non-GMO and are biodegradable within months of being disposed.

Carrefour has a proven track record of running green friendly campaigns. Earlier in June, to mark the International Environment Day, the company gave away over 500 complimentary eco-bags across its hypermarket network and sparked productive debate on the topic of plastic bags on social media.

Miguel Povedano, chief operating officer and head of operational excellence of Carrefour UAE at Majid Al Futtaim - Retail, said: “The issue of plastic bags harming our environment is one that requires careful consideration. In fact, every year an estimated one trillion plastic bags are consumed worldwide. At Carrefour, we pride ourselves on being part of the solution and hope that by introducing such initiatives we can help inspire consumers to take a stand so that together we can contribute to a greener earth.” - TradeArabia News Service