Multiple Local Authorities Advancing a Net Zero Procurement Framework

The Challenge: Addressing Scope 3 Emissions in the Public Sector

For most local authorities, the majority of emissions arise not from direct operations, but from procured goods and services. These Scope 3 emissions represent both the largest share of the footprint and the most complex area to influence.

Traditional approaches to supply chain decarbonisation have typically relied on detailed supplier-level data collection, emissions calculation, and ongoing engagement. While robust in principle, these approaches are resource-intensive and difficult to scale,particularly for local authorities operating under significant capacity and budget constraints. As a result, many councils struggle to translate supplier data into meaningful,system-wide emissions reductions.

This highlights the need for a more streamlined, policy-led approach that focuses on embedding sustainability directly into procurement processes, rather than relying solely on extensive supplier-by-supplier engagement.

Embedding Supply Chain Emissions into Procurement Policy – A Structured, Evidence-Led Approach

In response, we are pioneering a Net Zero Procurement Framework in collaboration with a group of local authorities. The approach embeds emissions considerations into procurement decision-making in a way that is proportionate, evidence-based, and aligned with supplier capability.

The programme combines detailed supply chain analysis with structured supplier engagement to ensure that policy development is grounded in real-world data and delivery constraints. It is underpinned by three core principles:

1. Evidence-led decision-making: Using robust, multi-dimensional data to inform procurement policy.

2. Proportionality and feasibility: Aligning requirements with supplier capability and market readiness.

3. Supplier partnership: Supporting, rather than displacing, local businesses in the transition to net zero.

Framework Delivery

The framework is delivered through two integrated work packages:

1. Procurement Policy Development

• Mapping of contracts across participating authorities to identify high-impact categories, renewal cycles, and priority intervention points.
• Structured engagement with suppliers to collect consistent data on emissions-related practices, governance, and readiness.
• Development of a phased, legally compliant procurement framework that incrementally strengthens sustainability requirements over time.
• Soft market testing with suppliers to validate feasibility and refine policy design prior to implementation.

2. Supplier Capability Building

• Delivery of targeted emissions training to support suppliers in understanding and managing their carbon footprint.
• Provision of practical guidance and tools to enable proportionate measurement and reporting.
• Ongoing support to help suppliers translate data into actionable reduction strategies.

These components are designed to operate as a single system. Supply chain data informs procurement policy, while targeted support ensures suppliers can respond effectively to evolving requirements.

Outcomes and Benefits

This approach enables local authorities to move beyond high-level commitments and establish a practical pathway for reducing Scope 3 emissions. Through grounding procurement policy in supply chain data and engagement, the framework supports more informed decision-making and improves the quality of emissions reporting over time.

For suppliers, the programme provides a structured pathway to build capability in carbon management, supporting both compliance with emerging requirements and broader commercial competitiveness.

At a system level, the framework strengthens local economic resilience by equipping SMEs with the tools and knowledge required to participate in a low-carbon economy.

Looking Ahead

Supply chain emissions represent one of the most significant, yet least developed, areas of public sector decarbonisation. Collaborative approaches, underpinned by shared data and coordinated policy development, offer a practical route to scaling impact while maintaining proportionality and fairness across the supplier base.