From April 2024, it will be compulsory to demonstrate Carbon Reduction Plans (CRPs) in any NHS tender bid submissions. This is because the NHS has announced a goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2045 and this will also include emissions generated by goods and services purchased through its suppliers.
Since April 2023, for all contracts above £5 million per annum (excluding VAT) in value, the NHS has required suppliers to publish a CRP for, at a minimum, their UK scope 1 and scope 2 emissions and a subset of scope 3 emissions.
From April this year, the NHS will extend this CRP requirement to all NHS procurements, regardless of contract size or value.
How can you demonstrate your CRP in a tender?
A CRP must identify the supplier’s carbon footprint and a clear plan for achieving net zero emissions, ideally by 2045 to coincide with the NHS target.
It should include:
- Your current greenhouse gas emissions, taking into account waste generated in operations, commuting and business travel, and transportation and distribution.
- Details of any environmental management measures already in place, including certifications or other specific carbon reduction initiatives you have adopted to become net zero.
How can you track your carbon?
Having researched different solutions to develop CRPs for our clients, we would recommend using Amethyst Connect’s Track My Carbon online platform as a low cost, easy to use way to develop and maintain CRPs that meet the requirements of Public Procurement Notice PPN 06/01.
With the impending change of requirements looming close in April, we have formalised our endorsement of the platform and negotiated a 10% saving for our clients as part of a new partnership with Amethyst Connect.
Next steps
Watch the video below to find out more about Track My Carbon.
Track My Carbon Introduction
To find out more about the NHS Carbon reduction plan and net zero commitment requirements for the procurement of NHS goods, services and works, visit the NHS website.
If you require additional support and consultancy to further develop your CRPs, reach out to Sarah Joy Newton, Founder of Amethyst Connect, and (as always) Krisja, David, and the rest of the team at K Low Consulting.