Procurement Policy Note 006 (PPN 06/21)

Develop a Carbon Reduction Plan in line with the UK government’s 2050 Net Zero commitment to support public sector procurement opportunities

Understanding PPN 006 (06/21)

Procurement Policy Note 006 (formerly PPN 06/21) is a UK government framework requiring all organisations bidding for UK government contracts valued at £5 million or more annually. This framework requires a Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) and must detail the suppliers’ carbon emissions for Scope 1 (direct), Scope 2 (indirect from energy use) and relevant Scope 3 (indirect) emissions such as transportation and waste, including a commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2050 and outline environmental management measures during contract delivery.

Under PPN 006, suppliers must follow a reporting process that ensures transparency and accountability in public sector procurement. This includes regular submissions tracking progress and compliance with environmental, social and economic criteria.

Book a consultation

Benefits of PPN 006 and Carbon Reduction Plans

Access to UK government contracts

Compliance with PPN 006 enables your organisation to bid for UK government contracts valued at over £5 million annually, providing access to valuable public sector opportunities.

Industry leadership and enhanced reputation

Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability strengthens your organisation’s brand, positioning it as a forward-thinking, environmentally responsible leader in your sector while fostering trust with stakeholders.

Operational efficiency and potential cost savings

Implementing carbon reduction strategies often results in improved energy efficiency, reduced waste and optimised operations, resulting in long-term cost savings.

Alignment with Net-Zero and regulatory readiness

By complying with PPN 006, your organisation contributes to the UK’s Net Zero by 2050 target, positions itself as an industry leader and is better prepared for evolving environmental regulations, mitigating the risk of future non-compliance.

NHS Evergreen Assessment

Having an up-to-date PPN 006 is essential to successfully completing the NHS Evergreen Assessment. In addition to the broader mandatory public sector PPN 006 requirement, the NHS Evergreen Assessment Roadmap is a tool used to evaluate the sustainability efforts of organisations aiming to secure and retain NHS procurement opportunities.

Key implementation dates:

Since April, 2024 new NHS procurements have required suppliers to publish a Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP). The CRP must include, scope 1, 2 and 5 subsets of scope 3 emissions, aligning with PPN 006.
By 2027 the requirement will expand to cover all scope 3 emissions globally in a comprehensive CRP, which will include emissions across the entire supply chain.
In 2028 new regulations will be implemented to govern the carbon footprint assessments of individual products supplied to the NHS.

How can McGrady Clarke help you comply with PPN 006?

We offer a complete PPN 006 service, from measuring all relevant emissions, developing Carbon Reduction Plans (CRPs) and supporting implementation. Our experienced team provides in-depth emissions analysis, reduction strategies and supports your organisation towards reaching Net Zero goals.

For NHS procurement, successful completion of the Evergreen Assessment requires an up-to-date PPN 006, and partnering with McGrady Clarke will help you navigate this requirement efficiently. Our expertise ensures a streamlined process from conducting the PPN 006, assessment to guiding your organisation through the NHS Evergreen Assessment.

Contact our team today