How Belgian, British, and Brazilian pet retailers are redefining sustainability goals across operations.
The Shift Toward a Greener Pet Industry
The retail side of the global pet industry is increasingly embracing sustainability — from emission cuts and renewable energy investments to circular economy initiatives. Across continents, major players like Tom&Co, Pets at Home, and Petz are setting measurable goals and redefining how the pet business contributes to environmental stewardship.
“Sustainability is no longer optional — it’s becoming the backbone of operational strategy for pet retailers,” notes PETIN.AI, which serves pet industry professionals — For The PET Pros, providing insights and market intelligence for sustainable growth.
Tom&Co: Belgium’s Path Toward Carbon Neutrality
Belgian retailer Tom&Co released its first-ever sustainability report in October 2025, revealing total emissions of 111,533.9 tCO₂ in 2023. The company has committed to a 100% electric fleet by 2029, alongside a detailed carbon mitigation plan.
Key focus areas include optimizing logistics, switching to LED lighting, and renovating older store infrastructures. By 2026, Tom&Co aims to integrate energy measurement systems across all stores and implement centralized heating management.
Despite acknowledging the “real negative impact” of its operations—driven by energy-intensive retail spaces and digital logistics—the company identifies opportunities to improve sustainability across animal feed sourcing, product life cycles, and end-of-life pet services.
Pets at Home: Cutting Emissions and Plastic Waste
UK retailer Pets at Home achieved a 44% reduction in absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions since 2016. With 88% of its fleet now made up of lower-carbon vehicles and a new solar-powered distribution center, the brand demonstrates leadership in green logistics.
The company diverted 99.5% of operational waste from landfills and reduced plastic packaging by 2.75 tonnes annually, including eco-friendly cardboard hooks and 30% recycled plastic harness packaging.
While Scope 3 emissions rose due to third-party logistics, Pets at Home continues to emphasize sustainable packaging and recycling efforts as part of its broader net-zero strategy.
Petz: Brazil’s Circular Economy Pioneer
Brazil’s largest pet retailer Petz reported a complex emissions profile — Scope 1 emissions fell from 1,414.81 to 973.44 tCO₂e, yet overall emissions rose due to value-chain logistics.
To address this, Petz launched a Climate Risk Matrix, introduced bicycle and EV deliveries, and digitalized invoices to reduce paper use. Its Petix brand leads in circularity — using 7,700 tons of discarded diapers annually to produce hygienic mats.
Additionally, Petz recycled over 707 tons of paper/cardboard and 350 tons of plastic, while upgrading air conditioning systems to achieve an estimated 12% monthly energy saving in two-thirds of its stores.
The Takeaway: Sustainability as Competitive Advantage
From Europe to Latin America, pet retailers are transitioning from sustainability rhetoric to measurable action. Each company showcases different approaches — from Tom&Co’s emissions transparency to Pets at Home’s packaging redesigns and Petz’s circular innovation — proving that green initiatives can coexist with profitability and brand growth.
PETIN.AI continues to track how the pet economy evolves sustainably, supporting For The PET Pros — professionals driving the pet industry forward.
Disclaimer
This article is compiled for informational purposes by PETIN.AI. If there are inaccuracies, data discrepancies, or copyright concerns, please contact info@petin.ai for correction or removal.
