A guide to addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable practices across supply chains
Sustainability has become a defining priority for organisations worldwide, and procurement is at the forefront of this transformation. As supply chains account for a significant portion of a business’s environmental impact, companies are under increasing pressure from regulators, investors, and consumers to integrate sustainable practices into procurement. The challenge lies in balancing cost efficiency with the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions, conserve resources, and create more resilient supply networks.
Understanding the challenges
Green procurement is not without its obstacles. Global supply chains are complex, often spanning multiple tiers and geographies, making it difficult to track environmental performance beyond direct suppliers. Data gaps, inconsistent reporting standards, and varying regulations across markets only add to the challenge. Additionally, businesses face the practical task of aligning sustainability with commercial objectives, especially in industries where margins are tight and competition is fierce.
Key areas of focus for sustainable procurement
- Supplier engagement and transparency
Building sustainable supply chains starts with visibility. Engaging suppliers to provide accurate data on energy use, emissions, and resource efficiency allows businesses to evaluate environmental risks and opportunities. Collaboration is key: developing long-term partnerships with suppliers encourages investment in sustainable practices. - Carbon reduction strategies
Companies can reduce emissions by optimising logistics networks, prioritising local sourcing, and transitioning to lower-carbon transport modes. Procurement teams also have a role in encouraging suppliers to adopt renewable energy, invest in energy-efficient production, and commit to science-based targets. - Circular economy practices
Traditional linear models of production and consumption are being replaced by circular approaches that prioritise reuse, recycling, and waste reduction. Procurement can drive this shift by sourcing recyclable materials, encouraging suppliers to design for durability, and embedding reverse logistics for product recovery. - Sustainable product and service selection
From eco-friendly packaging to responsibly sourced raw materials, procurement decisions directly shape a company’s environmental footprint. Establishing clear sustainability criteria in tenders and supplier contracts ensures that environmental considerations are embedded in every purchase decision. - Compliance and reporting
Regulations such as the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the UK’s Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) framework demand accurate, transparent disclosures. Procurement leaders must therefore ensure supplier data is robust and reporting mechanisms are in place to avoid non-compliance and reputational risk.
Sustainable procurement: Accelerate’s role
At Accelerate Procurement, we support organisations in embedding sustainability at the heart of their procurement strategy. Our procurement consultants bring expertise in supply chain optimisation, ESG reporting, and supplier engagement, enabling clients to balance commercial performance with environmental responsibility. By combining analytics, market insight, and hands-on experience, we help businesses design greener supply chains that reduce emissions, meet regulatory obligations, and deliver long-term value. With Accelerate as your partner, the road to green procurement becomes not only achievable but a source of competitive advantage.