Consumers are to blame, not Migros and Coop

A recent study by Greenpeace suggests that Migros and Coop are not doing enough to meet climate protection goals. However, ultimately it is the responsibility of consumers. Migros and Coop hold significant influence over the Swiss population, as they are large and powerful retailers deeply embedded in the country’s history. This is evident in the ongoing major restructuring at Migros, which has sparked strong emotions among the public. Issues such as high prices for organic food and low earnings for farmers often lead to accusations of exploitation of market power against these retailers.

Greenpeace’s study reveals that around 30 percent of Switzerland’s total greenhouse gas emissions are attributed to Migros and Coop. While the companies themselves only contribute 1 to 2 percent of these emissions through their own operations, the majority comes from suppliers and consumers. This is known as “Scope 3” emissions, which the retailers include in their climate reports. Coop, for example, sees almost half of its Scope 3 emissions coming from animal products and sales of petrol, diesel, and heating oil.

Both Migros and Coop have committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, encompassing their entire value chain. This means they indirectly take responsibility for the actions of consumers and suppliers in their efforts to reduce emissions. Consumers play a crucial role in climate protection, as their choices in consumption significantly impact greenhouse gas emissions. It is important for individuals to assess their carbon footprint and consider making changes to reduce it, such as consuming less meat or driving less.

Placing the burden solely on companies like Migros and Coop is not a sustainable solution, as consumers play a significant role in driving demand and consumption patterns. It is essential for individuals to take responsibility for their own consumption habits and make informed choices to reduce their impact on the environment.