NET-ZERO
He goes on : “ In very simplistic terms , procurement needs to embed sustainability as a form of value , in the same way as it might think about speed , quality , cost , etc . when creating strategies , buying or measuring outcomes . At certain times , this will mean finding new solutions ; at others , it can mean influencing and convincing stakeholders where change can be beneficial in business terms .”
But it ’ s not always easy accounting for sustainability in procurement , which is often an indirect emission , one which the primary company has to in some way outsource to a contractor . “ For most sectors , scope three greenhouse gas emissions – the indirect impacts that occur in a company ' s value chain – are the largest source of emissions , but getting a handle on them is notoriously difficult .” These are the words of Selina Donald , the Founder and Chief Sustainability Advisor of The Bulb , a sustainability consultancy that specialises in events . As the leader of the sustainability and social values strategy for the recent Birmingham Commonwealth Games ’ Opening and Closing Ceremonies , Donald was tasked with overseeing over 100 suppliers .
Recognising that “ no one can become net zero until we all become net zero ,” Donald stresses the need within procurement to align with like-minded suppliers , as well as to rate the sustainability and social values of potential suppliers .
“ In their contract , there ’ s a clause that requires them to provide sustainability data and ensure that their values align with expected on-site behaviours across power and waste management , transportation and design .” In the event she is not sure , she deploys tools like TRACE , a carbon calculator that tracks the environmental impact of suppliers . By implementing workshops and maintaining regular communication , sustainability was kept at the forefront of her company ’ s relationship with suppliers . By setting up a direct line via an email address , suppliers were engaged “ to provide sustainability support as appropriate and for them to put forward more sustainable options when delivering the product or service .”
Donald neatly summarises the approach : “ We recognised that a key driver to meeting our Sustainability and Social Values commitments was working with a likeminded supply chain that can not only meet requirements and provide value for money , but , at the same time , hold sustainability , diversity , and ethical sourcing practices at the core of their operations .”
“PROCUREMENT NEEDS TO EMBED SUSTAINABILITY AS A FORM OF VALUE ”
SIMON GEALE EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT FOR PROCUREMENT , PROXIMA
126 February 2023