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Marks & Spencer saved £70 million last year thanks to 'Plan A', its groundbreaking initiative which aims to transform Britain's high street stalwart into the world's most sustainable retailer by 2015.

Improved energy efficiency in Marks & Spencer's more than 1,000 stores saved £13.5 million last year while reduced packaging contributed £11.5 million to net savings. Reduced fuel consumption and the recycling of clothes hangers also contributed to the £70 million savings, up £20 million on 2009.

In a bid towards sustainability, the retailer spent £10 million last year on research and development of new products. To cut carbon-emissions, in its goal to become carbon neutral by 2012, Marks & Spencer is planning a trial to implement battery-powered fork lift trucks in its warehouses.

The high-street brand introduced another green scheme in April implementing eco-friendly clothing, with a carbon-neutral bra from the 'Autograph Leaves' collection.

Current chief executive Mark Bolland said: 'Plan A is now delivering more for our customers than ever before. It is creating great products with eco and ethical benefits like the world's first Fairtrade vegetable'.

Since the launch of 'Plan A' in 2007, Marks & Spencer has reported a 13 per cent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. At the time, former chief executive Sir Stuart Rose said: 'We are calling this 'Plan A' because there is no 'Plan B'.' The eco-friendly scheme covers fair trade, healthy living, climate change and waste.

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