Public Procurement and Property

Sustainable Procurement Tools – the journey so far

August 5, 2026 by Scottish Procurement No Comments | Category Procurement news, Scottish Procurement

What is the Sustainable Procurement Tools? 

The Sustainable Procurement Tools platform was designed to help public sector organisations identify and address how they can optimise the economic, social and environmental outcomes of their procurement activity.  

Launched in June 2020, the platform brings together a range of practical tools, guidance and learning resources in one place. It was developed through a national framework and delivered in partnership with a Scottish SME. 

By embedding sustainability into procurement, organisations can better align their purchasing decisions with strategic priorities such as net zero, fair work, and broader community benefits. The tools are flexible and can be adapted to suit the scale and nature of different contracts. 

What you can access on the platform 

There’s a wide range of resources available designed to support organisations at every stage of their procurement journey. These include: 

• practical guidance and tools 
• case studies 
• interactive eLearning modules 
• videos on how to use the tools 

Together, these resources help build knowledge, improve decision-making, and support more sustainable outcomes. 

eLearning resources 

A key feature of the platform is its suite of eLearning modules, designed to build capability and confidence in sustainable procurement: 

• Circular Procurement and Supply eLearning – designed to help buyers and suppliers understand their role in mobilising procurement and supply in the transition to a Circular Economy and Net Zero. 

• Climate Literacy eLearning – comprises of three modules and gives practical guidance on how public procurement activity can support net-zero aims for their organisation and Scotland as a whole. 

• Fair Work First in Procurement eLearning – designed to help organisations across Scotland embrace Fair Work First – a Scottish Government policy aimed at promoting high-quality, fair work and workforce diversity. A short video is also available to provide an overview of the module content 

• Introduction to Sustainable Public Procurement eLearning – intended for all those involved in commissioning and procurement. It introduces the user to the strategic role of procurement in addressing policy and legislative priorities. It summarises the key outcomes and benefits that can come from a focus on sustainable procurement, and outlines the key principles, tools. techniques and guidance available to support sustainable public procurement. 

Why it matters 

Sustainable procurement is a powerful tool for achieving wider organisational and societal goals. By making informed and responsible purchasing decisions, organisations can drive positive change across supply chains, support fair work practices, and contribute to environmental sustainability. 

The Sustainable Procurement Tools platform continues to evolve, helping organisations strengthen their approach and deliver lasting impact. 

You can access the Sustainable Procurement Tools by logging in or registering on the platform. 

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

Please email enquiries to scottishprocurement@gov.scot

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