Sustainability has become an important consideration within the public sector, with organisations under growing pressure to hit targets ahead of the UK government’s 2050 net zero goal. But how can procurement teams play their part in making that happen? In this blog, we explain how the net zero target relates to procurement, including the practical steps organisations can take to move from net zero policy to meaningful action. We also highlight some of the benefits of using frameworks or DPS solutions to make the transition easier.
Jump to:
- Why net zero procurement matters
- From policy to practical procurement
- Choosing suppliers that support your sustainability goals
- Why frameworks and DPS solutions matter
- A real opportunity for change
Why net zero procurement matters
Government commitments to net zero aren’t just lofty ambitions; they come with real expectations for public bodies across the UK. Local authorities, housing associations, NHS trusts and educational institutions are all expected to make changes to cut their carbon footprint, and procurement is one of the most powerful tools available to do that.
From building materials to IT systems, every contract and supply chain decision impacts emissions. That’s why net zero procurement is no longer optional. It's an essential part of delivering on sustainability targets, and just as importantly, delivering on the public sector’s wider responsibility to lead by example and consider the long-term impact of decisions made today.
Policy is shifting too, with Carbon Reduction Plans (CRPs) already a requirement for major central government contracts. As carbon counting becomes more mainstream, every public body will need to show how their procurement contributes to decarbonisation, and how it aligns with broader carbon reduction policy objectives.
From policy to practical procurement
It’s one thing to talk about sustainability, but how do you turn that into a coherent strategy as part of your procurement process? Like everything, the devil is in the detail, with organisations taking steps to ensure sustainability is part of the procurement strategy from the very beginning - including at tender stage. While cost and compliance remain very important factors, there's growing recognition that environmental impact needs to sit alongside them.
That means making sure your procurement approach includes:
● Clear sustainability objectives from the outset
● Requirements for suppliers to submit Carbon Reduction Plans
● Evaluation criteria that reward low-carbon innovation and social value from suppliers
● Lifecycle analysis to assess emissions over the long-term, not just the build or delivery phase
Factoring in whole-life costs and embedded carbon helps decision-makers see the bigger picture when it comes to sustainable procurement. For example, a more expensive product may offer lower maintenance, energy use or emissions over time, resulting in better value for money – and a lower carbon footprint.
Done well, this approach ensures that net zero isn’t a side consideration, but a central part of how procurement delivers impact.
Choosing suppliers that support your sustainability goals
To achieve real results, you need to carry out a full supplier evaluation, to find service and goods providers who actually walk the talk. That means partnering with those who are not only aware of sustainability, but are actively working to improve it.
The best suppliers won’t just tick boxes, they’ll offer practical solutions, backed by data and a clear carbon reduction strategy. Look for partners with strong sustainability credentials, such as science-based targets or net zero commitments, and a history of delivering low-carbon outcomes.
It’s also vital to engage with suppliers early, creating opportunities for collaboration, co-design and innovative thinking – especially important in complex sectors like construction or property development, which often have BNG requirements to consider too. It can also be time-consuming and resource-heavy to verify every supplier’s credentials, which is where a trusted framework comes into its own.
Why frameworks and DPS solutions matter
With net zero targets rising up the agenda, more buyers are turning to public sector procurement frameworks and DPS solutions to simplify the journey. These give you peace of mind that your organisation can source pre-vetted suppliers, who are already meeting high environmental standards.
Using a framework or DPS helps:
● Connect with suppliers who have a proven commitment to sustainability
● Ensure carbon and social value criteria are embedded from the outset
● Give access to flexible, future-ready procurement routes
● Reduce time and admin, without compromising on quality or compliance
What’s more, these solutions are updated in line with the latest policy and best practice, so buyers don’t need to worry about outdated processes or shifting regulations. It’s a ready-made route to climate-conscious procurement, supported by expert advice and real-world experience.
These tools are also a key part of helping public bodies stay aligned with fast-moving carbon reduction policy, ensuring procurement not only meets today’s standards, but is ready for tomorrow’s too.
Find out more about Procurements Hub’s frameworks and DPS solutions.
A real opportunity for change
Moving towards net zero procurement isn’t just about meeting targets, it’s about reimagining what public sector spending can do. Every decision made through procurement is an opportunity to support greener outcomes, whether that’s backing low-carbon construction, sourcing energy-efficient products, or engaging SMEs focused on sustainability. With the UK public sector spending around £1,226 billion each year, the potential impact is enormous.
By embedding carbon reduction into everyday procurement, buyers can lead the charge in transforming supply chains, building greener communities, and supporting the shift to a low-carbon economy.
Get in touch today to discuss how Procurement Hub’s solutions can help you access trusted suppliers, reduce emissions, and hit your sustainability goals.