With Australian life turned upside down as a result of COVID-19 restrictions, there are still some benefits of lockdowns that people globally have become aware of. The clearer skies and reduced pollution is something the country cares about more than ever, Deliveroo’s latest research has found, and the global delivery company is making category-leading moves in response. 

Deliveroo today becomes the first food delivery platform in Australia to carbon offset 100% of carbon emissions arising from all deliveries made on the platform, at no cost to restaurants or customers. 

The move is announced in response to growing consumer concern. Recent consumer data shows that environmental sustainability is a key concern for Aussies, with a recent Ipsos poll reporting 70% of Australians believe the environment should be a top priority of the Government post-COVID-19. Australian consumers also expect brands to take more action, with 83% saying brands should be taking environmental sustainability more seriously. Two-thirds (67%) are in favour of companies making environmental sustainability a priority in recovery from COVID-19, and one in two are choosing to buy from brands due to their environmental sustainability initiatives.

To offset emissions, Deliveroo has purchased carbon offsets for all deliveries over the next two years. The carbon offsets will help fund the Bierbank and Lanherne Regeneration Project in Queensland,  a controlled burns program in the Cape York Aurukun region as well as offshore wind farm projects. 

Emissions will be covered for the full Deliveroo order, from the point of the rider’s departure to the restaurant, to the consumer’s drop off destination. The program will offset over 16,000 tonnes of carbon will be offset over the initial two-year commitment – the equivalent of driving 3,500 cars for a year.

The announcement continues Deliveroo’s commitment to sustainability, building on brand partnerships with reusable plastics company Returnr and eco-friendly packaging company BioPack. 

Ed McManus, CEO, Deliveroo Australia, said: 

“By carbon offsetting all of our deliveries for the next two years, the delivery component of our business will become carbon neutral at no cost to our restaurant partners or customers. Environmental sustainability needs to be a priority for all of us, and climate action isn’t just a consumer issue – companies need to step up and do their bit. 

“This is an important first step for Deliveroo, but we know there is still much to be done. We’re committed to ongoing action to achieve environmental sustainability and will seek new ways to make sure Australians can enjoy amazing food wherever and whenever they want it in a sustainable way.”

Steven Marks, Founder and CEO of Guzman y Gomez said; 

“At GYG, we believe in sustainability, and in looking after our planet and environment. We believe we have a moral obligation to leave this world in a better place for future generations and we won’t stop, we know there’s always more we can do. It’s genuinely great to see that Deliveroo share our vision. 

Food delivery isn’t going away and we all love the convenience it provides. I’m genuinely impressed that Deliveroo are recognising what is important to their customers and doing the right thing by all of us.” 

Fiona Wilson, CEO of Earthwatch Australia, said:

“The science is clear that climate change is already affecting our livelihoods and our ecosystems. To avoid the worst climate change impacts, all sectors of society need to act so that carbon emissions reduce by half by 2030 and reach net-zero by mid-century.  Deliveroo, by offsetting their carbon emissions, is taking a clear stand that climate action is urgent and that their business is ready to take a leading role.”