Aldi is set to clean up its UK cold chain with the implementation of natural refrigerant systems across all stores in the country.

The hard discounter said it will switch to a system that uses CO2 as a coolant, which has a significantly lower global warming potential (GWP) than hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).

Aldi is investing £20m to convert up to 100 stores to the new system by end-2018, and said that when all its country stores switch over, its potential refrigerant gas carbon emissions will be reduced by 99%.

The chain noted: “By choosing natural refrigerants, we are reducing our impact on the environment while also assuring our stores are future-proofed for years to come.  We are continually looking for ways to improve our environmentally friendly credentials, and upgrading our entire stores to energy-efficient refrigeration is a key part of our commitment to being a responsible retailer.”