Future-Proof Your Bids and Achieve Net Zero: A Guide to PPN 06/21 - Event Write Up
Businesses aiming to win NHS contracts need to take note: starting April 1st, 2024, a net zero commitment and a publicly available carbon reduction plan are mandatory for bids. This requirement goes beyond current carbon reporting regulations by demanding the validation of planned actions and yearly progress updates. Failure to comply could mean exclusion from the NHS procurement process.
To help businesses navigate this new landscape, an informative session was held featuring experts from Halston B2B, Flotilla , Vida Healthcare and Daphne De Leener, Net Zero and Sustainability Senior Manager at NHS England.
Daphne De Leener, Net Zero and Sustainability Senior Manager at NHS England.
Daphne’s presentation clarified the concept of carbon reduction plans and their significance within the NHS program.
““Our goal isn’t to hinder suppliers,” “but to bring you on board so you’re prepared for future milestones.””
The carbon reduction plan serves as an initial step, introducing suppliers to carbon accounting and the importance of a net zero commitment. It follows a two-tiered approach: a corporate commitment to net zero by 2050 and a full carbon reduction plan. The plan also requires sharing emissions data for suppliers bidding on NHS contracts.
Daphne emphasised that these requirements currently apply only to NHS contracts, not the wider public sector. Importantly, the session offered valuable support resources for businesses. These include bi-weekly webinars on carbon reduction plans, a free checking service to ensure plans meet key requirements, and access to guidance documents.
Looking ahead, Daphne outlined the key milestones of the NHS Net Zero Supplier Roadmap for 2030. These include a supplier net zero target of 2045, and a 10% social value weighting implemented in 2022. In essence, suppliers must target net zero by 2050 and share emissions and carbon footprint data for NHS contracts, adhering to the tiered approach of a carbon reduction plan and net zero commitment requirements.
John Rastrick, Founder & CEO of Flotilla & James Rycroft, Managing Director of Vida Healthcare
The second part of the event featured John Rastrick and James Rycroft sharing their practical experience with carbon reduction plans.
John Rastrick, Founder & CEO of Flotilla, offered insights on the requirements of PPN 06/21 and the process of creating a successful carbon reduction plan. James Rycroft, Managing Director of Vida Healthcare, then discussed the concrete benefits his company has experienced by implementing such a plan.
The discussion highlighted both the regulatory push for carbon reduction and the wider commercial advantages it presents. James Rycroft emphasised the cultural shift within Vida Healthcare, where staff engagement has grown significantly. John Rastrick pointed out that a commitment to sustainability is increasingly becoming a prerequisite for attracting and retaining top talent.
They also stressed the importance of data-driven, credible, and transparent plans. Aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals was mentioned as a way to give your plan purpose and unite employees around it. Finally, they offered advice on communication and celebrating successes to maintain momentum.
Overall, the session aimed to equip businesses not just with the know-how to comply with regulations but also how to leverage carbon reduction plans as a strategic opportunity.
If you would like further details, or to book your free consultation with one of their specialists, please contact Sandra Tully, Engagement Manager: s.tully@flotillaworld.com
Jessica Farrow, Head of Communications at Halston B2B
In the final presentation, Jessica Farrow, Head of Communications at Halston B2B, offered guidance on transforming a carbon reduction plan from a regulatory document into a powerful communication tool.
Jessica emphasised that while the plan serves a regulatory purpose, it can also be leveraged to showcase a company's commitment to sustainability. Currently, many businesses treat it as a simple attachment hidden away on their websites. Jessica suggests placing it prominently, perhaps on a dedicated sustainability webpage or within the main navigation menu.
Transparency is key! Fear of negative judgment, known as “Green Hushing” shouldn't prevent companies from sharing their carbon footprint.
Accessibility is another crucial aspect. The plan should be easily found by both external audiences and internal stakeholders, including employees. Employee engagement is vital for successful carbon reduction efforts. Jessica recommends internal communication strategies like newsletters and awareness days to cultivate a collaborative approach.
The plan itself can be transformed into a more engaging format. Digital versions, infographics, and even videos can improve user experience and boost engagement.
Finally, Jessica reminds businesses that the carbon reduction plan is not a static document. Annual updates and revisions are essential to track progress, measure success, and ensure continued accountability.
If you would like any further information, please email info@sustainability Partnerships