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NHS Supplier’s Guide to Green Plans

Lucion Group

Lucion Group

28th February, 2025

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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 ÂŁ5 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 ÂŁ5m 
  • 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: 

  1. Conduct a carbon assessment 
  2. Calculate your current carbon footprint 
  3. Set realistic reduction targets 
  4. Develop specific reduction strategies 
  5. Create monitoring systems 
  6. 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. 

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Testimonials

I joined Lucion’s Graduate Programme fifteen months ago, during which I have developed extensive experience both on site and in the office. I have had the opportunity to supervise rotary, cable percussive and window sampler boreholes as well as trial pitting across a diverse range of site settings and ground conditions. I have become competent in soil, groundwater and vapour sampling, alongside groundwater and ground gas monitoring.

Progressing through the Graduate Programme, I have been given the opportunity to prepare a broad range of technical reports, progressing from phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessments through to phase 2 Geo-Environmental reports, remediation strategies and verification reports.

My recent promotion to a Geo-Environmental consultant is a milestone that would not have been possible without the support, knowledge and encouragement from the Bristol team. Their guidance throughout my time at Lucion has been instrumental in my professional development, and I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given to learn and progress within the business.

Fraser Parnham Geoenvironmental Consultant

Since joining Lucion 6 months ago it has provided me with invaluable opportunities to develop both professionally and personally. During my time with the company, I have gained hands-on experience in a range of geo-environmental consultancy activities, including groundwater sampling using low-flow techniques, gas monitoring, soil logging to BS5930 and observing trial pitting and borehole advancement works. These experiences have significantly expanded my technical knowledge and understanding of site investigation practices.

The practical skills I have developed through Site works have also been instrumental in supporting my office-based work. Having gained first hand experience of Site investigations and monitoring techniques, I have been able to apply this knowledge when preparing Health and Safety documents, Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessments (PRAs), and Phase 2 Geo-Environmental reports.

Beyond the technical skills I’ve developed, Lucion has actively supported my professional growth by encouraging continuous learning and providing opportunities to take on new challenges. The company has also supported my engagement with professional bodies, including the Institute of Environmental Sciences (IES), helping me further my industry knowledge and establish connections within the environmental sector.

The supportive environment at Lucion has helped me build confidence and develop both as a consultant and as an individual. I am grateful to be part of a company that genuinely invests in its people, encourages professional development, and provides opportunities to grow throughout every stage of a career.

Caitlin Brill Graduate Geoenvironmental Consultant

Mark Hughes and the surveyors we have used to complete our Asbestos surveys in Scotland for SSEN have been very easy to work with. They are responsive to queries we have had and are very helpful. Planning visits to all our sites, some being quite remote, has been straightforward thanks to them. The reports are detailed and completed in a very timely manner. We are delighted with the service.

Sarah Rendall Asset Inspection Team Manager – Highland - SSEN

Efficient and completed the works on time and to the required timescale.

Kev James Project Manager ‑ Water, Aviation and Highways - Morgan Sindall Infrastructure

Lucion has proven to be an invaluable partner in managing our asbestos compliance requirements since 2016. Their resident-focused approach, combined with technical expertise, has made them a trusted presence across our housing portfolio.

Their surveyors’ professional appearance and conduct have helped build resident confidence, while their thorough reporting and project management ensure we maintain the highest standards of safety.

The renewal of our contract to 2029 reflects our confidence in their continued excellence.

Sharon Taylor Procurement & Facilities Manager

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