Sustainable procurement is the process in place for a business or organisation to meet its financial goals and responsibilities in a way that also benefits society and the overall economy while at the same time resulting in minimal damage to the environment.
While this seems like a hefty task, there are strategies to help businesses succeed.
The most pressing issues currently facing companies are the reduction of the deficit and the promotion of economic security. The UK government also realises that this goal must be achieved in a way that minimises further stress on the environment as multiple conclusive studies have shown that industrialisation and increased carbon dioxide emissions are causing dangerous climate changes that could yield catastrophic results.
One excellent strategy being employed to achieve these tough goals is to cut back on excessive use of natural resources and turn to alternatives to increase energy efficiency through top procurement solutions in the UK. For example, new buildings are now being inspected by the British Research Establishment Energy Assessment Method. This organisation assures the latest methods in energy efficiency are being implemented in power plants and other buildings.
Sustainable Procurement Solution
Sustainable Procurement refers to 'policy-through-procurement' issues where purchasing choices are seen as a lever to achieve wider objectives. These lofty goals may seem to pose a difficult challenge, but it all comes down to procurement having a key rôle in the business, together with the ability to assess suppliers correctly.
Implementing environmental procurement may require a larger initial investment of time and effort, but it can pay lasting dividends in terms of reduced product life-cycle cost, overall cost efficiency, and minimising environmental risk. A growing number of suppliers now recognises that the environmental qualities of their products can be a competitive advantage in courting and maintaining relationships with corporate customers -- while poor environmental performance can put them at a disadvantage.
Companies can team environmental managers with their procurement departments to leverage suppliers towards green practices as well as benefiting from increased accountability and the relationships that result. Top Procurement solutions in the UK can be achieved using business models already in place.
It is very important not to overlook the importance of training employees on the importance of the new sustainable procurement measures being taken. Companies choosing to take action on this matter should include on-the-job training to current staff as well as work a segment regarding the issue into the training and development of new employees.
Specific topics to highlight include the dangers of climate change on a global scale and the adverse effect it will inevitably have later if efforts are not taken now. To further raise the responsibility level personally to each employee, the specific job requirements for each employee should be clearly stated as to what each individual must do to ensure the overall goals of the company are met in taking an active role on this important matter.
Companies can further their efforts by analysing their current suppliers to ensure they are employing those who take the most active stance on this issue.This not only further increases the awareness, but also shows consumers how serious the company is at finding a solution, even if it means utilising services and products necessary in the production of their product from a more expensive outlet.
Succeeding in overcoming the enormous task at hand will require a joint effort from businesses all over the world. By taking the first step in raising awareness, businesses currently employing procurement strategies are pioneering the way for solutions.
Top Procurement Solutions in the UK is frequently being approached for help and support by businesses who are increasingly being critiqued on their treatment of green and environmental issues.
Often the most highly visible aspect of a green business plan includes purchasing and the supply chain.
Suppliers are being held to a higher standard, subjected to greater scrutiny, and expected to respond to these challenges, and rightly so.
