Researchers at CCE wrote a deep dive report on sustainable procurement, published by Chapter Zero for their network of non-executive directors.
Overview
Sustainable procurement is increasingly recognised as a strategic lever in the transition to a low-carbon economy, with implications that reach well beyond operational efficiency. The way organisations buy goods and services influences emissions across value chains, while also shaping resilience, reputation and long-term competitiveness. For boards and non-executive directors, procurement decisions intersect with core oversight responsibilities, from managing risk and ensuring robust assurance, to enabling access to markets and strengthening brand trust.
Recent changes to the UK’s public procurement framework have further elevated its importance. The Procurement Act 2023 and the accompanying National Procurement Policy Statement signal clearer expectations that environmental considerations, including climate risk, supplier standards and biodiversity protection, are embedded into purchasing decisions. At the same time, the scale of public sector spending presents a significant commercial opportunity for businesses able to respond credibly to these expectations. Bringing a focus on low-carbon and responsible procurement into boardroom discussions can therefore help organisations align regulatory compliance, revenue opportunities and sustainability ambitions, while using purchasing power to support durable, long-term value creation.
The deep dive was researched by Dr Jellie Molino, an international legal expert on sustainable public procurement (SPP) and Post-Doctoral Research Associate at the Centre for Climate Engagement, advising global organisations on climate-procurement governance. She is also International SPP Expert for the World Bank in Bangladesh, Türkiye, and Angola. It was written by Dr Jellie Molino and CCE Researcher, Sofie Surraco.
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