Supermarkets have taken disposable barbecues off their shelves due to increased wildfire risks. Asda joined the initiative on Tuesday amid ongoing hot and dry weather affecting parts of the UK. Recent fires in Dunwich, Suffolk, and the Rhondda Valley prompted this action. Co-op and Tesco halted disposable BBQ sales in July, with Sainsbury’s following suit until August 12. Wilko and The Range are also removing these products. Aldi, Lidl, Waitrose, and M&S stopped selling disposable grills in 2022.
Retailers are following voluntary guidance from the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) until next week due to the prolonged heatwave. Jon Pearce, MP for High Peak, commended major chains for their decision and urged others to do the same. He emphasized the need for government action to address climate change and wildfire risks. Pearce advocated for a ban on disposable BBQs in public spaces and urged the government to act proactively.
Firefighters have faced over 700 wildfires in England and Wales this year. The NFCC advises against using disposable BBQs in open areas to reduce fire risks. Co-op and Tesco have temporarily stopped selling disposable BBQs, aligning with NFCC guidelines and emphasizing environmental responsibility. Co-op and Tesco stressed their commitment to following industry codes and ensuring customer safety.