The NHS Net Zero commitment
The NHS is the largest single employer in the UK and responsible for approximately 4% of England's total carbon emissions. In 2020, the NHS committed to reaching Net Zero by 2040 for directly controlled emissions (NHS Carbon Footprint) and 2045 for its supply chain (NHS Carbon Footprint Plus). The supply chain accounts for 62% of the NHS's total footprint, making supplier engagement absolutely critical to achieving these targets.
What suppliers need to do by 2027
From April 2027, all NHS suppliers will need to provide a Carbon Reduction Plan as part of procurement processes, regardless of contract value. This is a significant expansion from the current PPN 06/21 threshold of £5 million. Suppliers will also need to report their carbon footprint publicly and demonstrate year-on-year reduction progress. For suppliers providing high-emission products or services (medical devices, pharmaceuticals, food, construction), additional detailed reporting on product-level emissions is expected.
Preparing your organisation
Start by calculating your baseline carbon footprint — Scope 1 (gas, fleet), Scope 2 (electricity), and Scope 3 (purchased goods, business travel, employee commuting, waste). Establish a reporting process that can be repeated annually to show progress. Set reduction targets aligned with the NHS Evergreen framework, which specifies milestones for 2028, 2032, 2039, and 2045. Even if your targets are modest initially, having a documented, measurable plan demonstrates the commitment that NHS procurement teams are looking for.