Sainsbury’s has pledged to support start-up companies with ‘proof of concept’ technologies that reduces carbon emissions and water usage across the retailer’s operations, as well as the wider sector.

In partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE), the retailer will fund the project through its new Sainsbury’s Innovation Investments programme. It will invest a minimum of £5 million over the next four years into the project.

The announcement marks another phase in Sainsbury’s investment towards achieving Net Zero in its own operations by 2035.

Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE) is expected to scout and invest into early stage companies, not limited to the Sainsbury’s supply chain, across a range of sectors. The first investment is expected to be announced before the end of 2022.

Sainsbury’s property and procurement director, Patrick Dunne, said that the retailer understands that reducing emissions and water usage is critical part of tackling climate change.

He said: “Tackling an issue of this scale requires collaboration and we’re really excited to not only invest in these businesses, but also provide a pathway to in-store use, working towards a more sustainable future for everyone.”

Matthew Burke, director of Williams Technology Ventures, added that the company was “delighted” to support Sainsbury’s in the launch of the project, and that the partnership will “act as a springboard for wider and rapid technology adoption by customers across retail and other sectors who all share common Net Zero challenges.”