PPN 09/22

Cabinet Office guidance mandating carbon reduction plans for major suppliers in UK public procurement, requiring net zero commitments and emission reduction strategies.

What it requires

PPN 09/22, published in September 2022, mandates that contracting authorities must require suppliers to publish a Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) as a selection criterion for procurements above certain thresholds. The policy applies to central government contracts over £5 million per annum and covers goods, services, and works contracts.

Suppliers must demonstrate their commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, with interim targets and clear reduction strategies. The Carbon Reduction Plan must include current carbon footprint data, emission reduction targets, and specific measures for achieving these goals.

Implementation requirements

The PPN requires contracting authorities to include CRP requirements in tender documentation and evaluate compliance during the selection stage. Suppliers without qualifying Carbon Reduction Plans face exclusion from the procurement process, making environmental credentials a mandatory rather than optional consideration.

The policy includes provision for smaller suppliers to submit proportionate plans, recognising that micro and small enterprises may have different capabilities for carbon measurement and reporting.

Strategic impact

This procurement note represents a significant shift towards using public sector purchasing power to drive environmental objectives across the UK supply chain. By making carbon reduction plans mandatory for major contracts, the government leverages its £300 billion annual procurement spend to accelerate the transition to net zero.

The policy affects thousands of suppliers across multiple sectors, from construction and facilities management to professional services, creating a ripple effect throughout the UK economy.