The NHS Evergreen Assessment is a tool created by the NHS to engage with their supply chain to ensure that suppliers are setting sustainability goals and aligning with the NHS targets of achieving net zero direct emissions by 2040 and net zero supply chain emissions by 2045.
Following completion of the Assessment Tool, each supplier receives a maturity level score (1 to 4) reflecting their current position and alignment with the NHS’s sustainability objectives. The score is valid for 12 months before needing to reassess, however suppliers can update their submission at any time to reflect significant changes within their operations.
McGrady Clarke’s carbon experts can guide you through the assessment process, assisting with calculating carbon emissions and producing a compliant Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP). We can also provide guidance on implementation of reduction actions and recommendations, required to improve your organisation’s maturity score.
The transition to a full global Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP)
Since April 2024, irrespective of contract value, suppliers have been required to publish a Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) that includes UK only Scope 1, Scope 2 and five subsets of Scope 3 emissions, in line with PPN 06/21.
By April 2027, this requirement will expand to include all applicable Scope 3 emissions globally, requiring suppliers to submit a comprehensive CRP that covers emissions across their entire supply chain (all fifteen Scope 3 categories as well as Scopes 1-2). Suppliers must also continue to publicly report their emissions and reduction targets alongside the CRP.
Be proactive, not reactive – don’t delay a full Carbon Footprint Assessment (CRP)
Taking a proactive approach is key. Rather than settling for the baseline Level 1, suppliers should strive to reach higher maturity levels and avoid waiting until the 2027 deadline to complete their full global CFA and CRP. By acting now, you can demonstrate a genuine commitment to accurate and full sustainability reporting to the NHS. Early action also enables you to streamline data collection processes, making future reporting easier and more efficient, reducing the pressure and challenges that come with last-minute submissions.
Suppliers that demonstrate credible, data-driven sustainability reporting are more likely to be viewed as low-risk, forward-thinking partners, which can provide an advantage when bidding for tenders in an increasingly sustainability-focused procurement landscape.
Reaching a higher level of sustainability
As the NHS Net Zero supplier roadmap progresses, the transition to a full global Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) requirement and more mature corporate social value programmes can be complex, but McGrady Clarke’s carbon and ESG specialists are here to provide expert support at every stage.
We advise organisations to begin focusing on the expansion of their CFA to cover all applicable Scope 3 categories. Early action provides the time needed to ensure readiness for future reporting demands.
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