Aldi customers in Leicestershire are to trial a new green carrier bag scheme which could end up being rolled out nationwide.

Next month, shoppers at Aldi’s 17 stores in Leicestershire and Rutland will have a choice at the checkout - with the option of a compostable carrier bag.

The new compostable bags cost 6p each and are made of a bio-degradable material, called Bioplast, designed to be completely domestically compostable within 12 months.

At the end of the trial, the option most popular with customers will be selected to roll out across the UK and offered alongside Aldi’s other reusable bags.

Fritz Walleczek, managing director of corporate responsibly at Aldi, said: “Reducing the amount of plastic we produce is fundamental to our commitment to being a sustainable and environmentally responsible business.

"This trial will enable us to work with shoppers in Leicestershire to identify what works for them so that we can find the best long-term solution.

Aldi is going green
Aldi is going green

“Cutting waste is part of Aldi’s DNA and we are constantly looking for new ways to reduce our environmental impact.

"This new trial is one of the biggest we have ever launched because we want our customers to be involved and help us make the right decision for them and the environment.”

The secrets of the stores revealed

Aldi expects a significant amount of plastic will be saved if the trial rolls out nationally. The bag being introduced across all stores could help to save up to 1,300 tonnes per year, which is the equivalent of 33.3 million carrier bags.

Later this summer, Aldi will also launch two further bags - a new reusable bag made entirely from Aldi back of store waste, as well as a reusable cotton alternative.

These are the 17 stores in Leicestershire and Rutland taking part:

  • St Georges Way, Leicester
  • Watling Street, Hinckley
  • Belton Road, Loughborough
  • Leicester Road, Melton
  • Hackamore Way, Oakham
  • Springfield Street, Market Harborough
  • Bullhead Street, Wigston
  • Meridian Way, Braunstone
  • Aylestone Road, Leicester
  • Woodgate, Leicester
  • Abbey Lane, Humphreys Way, Leicester
  • 3 Fletton Close, Hamilton, Leicester
  • Dents Road, Ashby
  • Adcock Road, Coalville
  • 1169 Melton Road, Syston
  • Brackley Court, Welford Road, Blaby
  • 173 Buxton Crescent, Broughton Astley