The NHS Green Plan cycle for 2022-2025 is coming to an end, and new guidance has been released for 2025-2028. This means changes are on the horizon - both for healthcare providers and their suppliers across the UK.
To help NHS suppliers prepare for these new requirements, we’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions we receive.
As a supplier, do I need a Carbon Reduction Plan?
Yes, if you’re bidding for NHS contracts worth £5 million or more per annum. Implemented in April 2023, this is mandatory and must be publicly available on your website.
What needs to be included in my Carbon Reduction Plan?
Your plan must include:
- Confirmation of your commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2050
- Current emissions data (Scope 1, 2, and specified Scope 3)
- Historical emissions data where available
- Clear carbon reduction targets
- Outlined environmental management measures
- Completed Carbon Reduction Plan template (PPN 06/21)
Emissions and Reporting
Which emissions do I need to report on?
You must report on:
- Scope 1: Direct emissions (e.g., company vehicles, on-site fuel use)
- Scope 2: Indirect emissions (e.g., purchased electricity)
- Relevant Scope 3: Including business travel, employee commuting, waste, and emissions from both upstream and downstream transportation and distribution.
How often do I need to update my emissions data?
Your Carbon Reduction Plan must be updated at least annually, with current emissions data no more than 12 months old when bidding for contracts.
Timeline and Deadlines
What are the key dates I need to know?
Key dates include:
- April 2023: Mandatory CRP for contracts over £5m
- April 2024: CRP required for all procurements
- April 2027: Global emissions targets required
- 2030: Must demonstrate progress through published reports
What happens if I miss these deadlines?
Missing deadlines could make you ineligible for NHS contracts. Early preparation is essential to maintain your position as an NHS supplier.
Practical Implementation
How do I start creating my Carbon Reduction Plan?
Follow these steps:
- Conduct a carbon assessment
- Calculate your current carbon footprint
- Set realistic reduction targets
- Develop specific reduction strategies
- Create monitoring systems
- Publish your plan
What tools are available to help?
Available resources include:
- PPN 06/21 template
- Carbon calculation tools
- NHS sustainable supplier assessment
- Professional consultancy services
- Industry guidance documents
Common Concerns
How much will this cost my business?
Costs vary depending on:
- Your company’s size
- Current environmental measures
- Required changes
- External support needed
It’s worth noting that many measures can lead to cost savings through improved efficiency.
Will small changes make enough difference?
Yes! Every reduction helps. Focus on:
- Quick wins (e.g., energy efficiency)
- Medium-term improvements
- Long-term strategic changes
- Continuous improvement
Compliance and Verification
How will the NHS verify my Carbon Reduction Plan?
Through:
- Review of published plans
- Assessment during procurement
- Regular progress monitoring
- Evergreen sustainable supplier assessment
What evidence do I need to keep?
Maintain records of:
- Emissions calculations
- Reduction initiatives
- Progress tracking
- Environmental certificates
- Audit results
Future Requirements
What changes are expected in the future?
Prepare for:
- Stricter emissions targets
- Expanded reporting requirements
- Product-level carbon footprinting (from 2028)
- Enhanced supplier assessments
- Increased focus on circular economy
How can I stay ahead of future requirements?
We recommend:
- Setting ambitious targets now
- Investing in sustainable technologies
- Developing strong monitoring systems
- Building sustainability into business strategy
- Regular staff training
Quick Tips for Success
What are the key factors for a successful Carbon Reduction Plan?
Focus on:
- Clear, measurable targets
- Realistic timelines
- Regular monitoring
- Staff engagement
- Continuous improvement
- Documentation
- Supply chain engagement
Need more detailed guidance? Read more about the NHS Green Plans by clicking here or contact our team of experts for personalised support.
