What is the role of the Procurement function in decarbonising the economy?

With a growing understanding of the effects of climate change worldwide, companies are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact. One way to achieve this is to change their purchasing habits. Choosing more environmentally friendly suppliers and items can help reduce companies’ carbon footprint and lay the foundations for a more sustainable future. 

Decisions to purchase products and materials have a direct impact on an organisation’s carbon footprint. The goods and components acquired by companies add to their total greenhouse gas emissions. For example, if an organisation buys items produced from fossil fuels, the carbon emissions linked to manufacturing and delivering these items will increase the company’s carbon footprint. Conversely, if a company chooses products made from renewable energy sources and environmentally friendly techniques, it can considerably reduce its carbon footprint. 

To further reduce their carbon footprint, companies can choose items made from sustainable sources. For example, they can opt for paper made from recycled fibres and plastics made from recycled water bottles. They can also choose items made from renewable sources, such as bamboo, which can be grown and harvested in an environmentally friendly way. 

Companies can make a considerable difference to their greenhouse gas emissions by changing their transport choices. Using locally produced items and more environmentally friendly transport methods, such as trains instead of trucks, can reduce the carbon emitted by transport. 

Overall, Procurement plays an essential role in reducing carbon emissions. Companies can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability by making responsible purchasing decisions. As consumers become increasingly aware of their environmental impact, companies must pay attention to the suppliers and products they buy. By doing so, they will be able to reduce their ecological footprint and help create a better future for all. 

• Steps towards low-carbon purchasing: 

 
As more and more individuals and organisations recognise the impact of climate change, there is growing interest in reducing the carbon footprint through sustainable purchasing. The transition to low-carbon purchasing involves a series of steps organisations can take to minimise their carbon footprint.  

The first step is to carry out an in-depth analysis of the organisation’s carbon footprint, including the carbon footprint of the supply chain. Organisations can then prioritise buying low-carbon alternatives, such as renewable energy or energy-efficient products.  

Organisations can also seek to reduce waste and apply circular economy principles by buying products made from recycled materials or by choosing to repair and refurbish products rather than buying new ones.  

Finally, organisations can work with their suppliers to develop sustainable solutions and implement low-carbon practices throughout the supply chain.  

By taking these steps towards low-carbon purchasing, organisations can not only reduce their environmental impact but also create a more sustainable future. 

Abdelilah EL ATTARI

Expert in digital transformation and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Procurement digitalisation (S2C, P2P), HRIS, Civic Tech and participatory democracy, Marketing and customer relations