In today’s globalised marketplace, buyers are increasingly recognising the vital role they play in driving sustainability through their procurement processes.
As businesses strive to meet environmental and social responsibility targets, aligning procurement practices with sustainability goals has become a top priority.
One powerful strategy in achieving this alignment is emphasising the importance of a local supply chain.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the various strategies and practices that buyers can adopt to foster sustainability through their procurement activities, with a particular focus on the benefits of supporting local suppliers.
Prioritise Sustainable Suppliers
Begin by identifying and partnering with suppliers who share your commitment to sustainability. Evaluate potential suppliers based on their environmental practices, ethical labour standards, and overall commitment to reducing their carbon footprint.
Establishing criteria for sustainability in the supplier selection process ensures that your procurement aligns with broader environmental goals.
Tip: on The Build Chain, suppliers can upload information about their company, making it easy to select suppliers that align with your values
Local Sourcing for Reduced Carbon Footprint
Choosing local suppliers can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
By sourcing goods and services locally, buyers contribute to lower emissions, promoting a greener and more sustainable supply chain.
Local sourcing also supports regional economic development and helps build resilient, interconnected communities.
Read more: Local Supply Chains on The Build Chain
Collaborate for Innovation
Engage in collaborative partnerships with local suppliers to drive innovation in sustainable practices. By working closely with suppliers, buyers can encourage the development of eco-friendly products and processes, creating a culture of continuous improvement in sustainability within the supply chain.
Demand Transparency
Transparency is a cornerstone of sustainable procurement. Buyers should demand transparency from their suppliers regarding their environmental and social practices. This includes providing information on the origin of materials, adherence to ethical labour standards, and overall environmental impact. Transparency not only ensures accountability but also allows buyers to make informed decisions in line with their sustainability goals.
Tip: Data driven construction procurement can greatly enhance transparency
Encourage Circular Economy Practices
Promote the adoption of circular economy principles within the supply chain. Encourage suppliers to minimise waste, recycle materials, and design products with a focus on longevity and recyclability. Embracing a circular economy approach contributes to resource conservation and reduces the environmental impact of the procurement process.
Invest in Local Communities
Supporting a local supply chain goes beyond environmental considerations; it also has social implications. Buyers can invest in local communities by choosing suppliers that prioritise fair labour practices, diversity, and community engagement.
This approach not only strengthens the social fabric but also ensures that procurement decisions positively impact the wellbeing of local populations.
Measure and Report Progress
Implement a robust system for measuring and reporting on sustainability metrics within the procurement process. Regularly assess the environmental and social impact of your procurement activities and share this information transparently with stakeholders. Measuring progress allows for continuous improvement and demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices.
Aligning procurement processes with sustainability goals is a powerful way for buyers to contribute to a greener and more responsible future.
By prioritising local suppliers and embracing sustainable practices, businesses can not only reduce their environmental impact but also foster economic and social development within their communities.
Sustainable procurement is not just a responsibility; it’s an opportunity to drive positive change and create a lasting impact on the planet and its people.
Create a Local Supply Chain with The Build Chain
With over 500 merchant branches on our materials procurement platform, it’s easy to choose independent, local suppliers for your projects using The Build Chain.
By choosing suppliers close to your projects, you can decrease the transport-related carbon emissions associated with your work.
Each quote for materials you receive via our platform includes an ESG percentage which helps you work out the percentage savings of emissions from the furthest to the closest supplier.
Want to see the other advantages that come with using The Build Chain to procure construction materials? Get in touch today.
