Public Procurement and Property

#ScotClimateWeek PPG round up

September 29, 2023 by Melissa Reilly No Comments | Category climate change, Public Procurement Group, Sustainability

As part of Scot Climate Week 2023, we hear from some members of the Public Procurement Group (PPG) on how their organisations are embedding climate action in their procurement activities.

Scottish Government (Central Government)

Following publication of the Public Procurement Strategy for Scotland, the Central Government (CG) Centre of Expertise through engagement with the Procurement Collaborative Group, has been developing an action plan to implement the strategy objectives. In support of the ‘Climate crisis and environment’ objective, it is envisaged that the actions will build on previous work carried out to support the development of the Primary Impact Area Climate Change (PIACC) guides which assist buyers in considering climate considerations and opportunities at each procurement stage and support implementation of the PIACC guides in the sector. The sector also aims to identify further opportunities through a climate specific workshop with CG procurement leads and consider development of sectoral guidance and measurements to ensure consistency and proportionality around implementing climate considerations and measuring impacts. We will continue to promote the use of sustainability tools and Climate Literacy training uptake across the sector.

APUC (Advanced Procurement for Universities and Colleges)

The Scottish University and College sectors are committed to carrying out all their operations in an environmentally, socially, ethically and economically responsible manner. This commitment extends to their procurement and supply chain management, which is a vital part of sector activity. In relation to climate change, the supply chain is seen as a key focus for early attention across all institutions to significantly reduce GHG emissions from our needs for goods and services, wherever these emissions are generated in the supply chain. A shared Supply Chain Climate and Ecological Emergency Strategy has now been agreed by the Principals’ groups of both the University and College sectors in Scotland. APUC has been providing support to assist its member institutions in the implementation of this strategy.

Scotland Excel (local authorities)

Scotland Excel fully supports our members net zero ambitions and will make sure our portfolio remains crucial in assisting councils and others in meeting the regulatory requirements. Our newly formed ‘Net Zero Strategy delivery team’ with representation from across the organisation will lead on implementing our first ever Net Zero strategy. The five-year strategy was launched earlier this year and will make sure contract arrangements available via Scotland Excel support our members in meeting their own individual targets, outcomes and statutory responsibilities. The strategy covers Scotland Excel’s entire portfolio of 70+ frameworks and sets out the role of Scotland Excel, outlines progress the organisation will make in the short, medium, and longer term, and details the activities that will be completed to meet its objectives. We continue to support the Scottish Government’s ambitious plans to make Scotland a net zero nation by 2045.

NHS National Services Scotland

Across National Procurement at NHS National Services Scotland, we’re committed to advancing our efforts in response to the climate change emergency. To bolster this commitment, we’ve recently established a dedicated commercial team focused on expediting the decarbonisation of NHSScotland heating and power infrastructure.

One significant step forward is the integration of environmental evaluations into our tendering process for all products. This marks a watershed moment, as we’re now implementing a comprehensive, system-wide approach to assess and comprehend the environmental impact of our products. This approach empowers our clinicians and service users to make informed choices that benefit not only patients but also our environment.

Also in line with our environmental initiatives, we’re actively collaborating with our top 100 suppliers to gather climate plans. Additionally, we’re working closely with our clinical waste supplier to enhance recycling processes for healthcare waste.

Our message resounds with positivity and unwavering determination. We aim to utilise the position we occupy to allow us to drive positive change. Our commitment remains resolute as we work towards a net-zero future. Together, we can achieve ambitious goals and usher in a sustainable tomorrow for all.

Please forward enquiries to scottishprocurement@gov.scot

For further information on public procurement in Scotland please visit www.gov.scot/procurement

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Tags: climate, PPG, Public Procurement Group, scot climate week 2023, Sustainability, sustainable procurement tools

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