Author: Brian M

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$200bn of funding needed each year by 2030 to combat biodiversity loss

Post author By Brian M
Post date April 20, 2023

Environment and Climate Ministers from the G7 countries have agreed on a joint statement to tackle global nature loss at a recent meeting in Sapporo, Japan. The ministers committed to the swift and effective implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), aiming to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. There was a distinct emphasis on the need for funding from various sources, including private finance, to support developing countries in their efforts to protect nature.

In line with these commitments, a new report by the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), and the Finance for Biodiversity (FfB) Foundation highlights the importance of investors supporting innovative financial solutions to address biodiversity risks. The report urges investors to help raise the required $200 billion per year by 2030, as stated in the GBF.

The report, entitled “Stepping up on biodiversity: What the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework means for responsible investors,” provides guidance and advice specifically for investors looking to align their activities with the goals of the GBF. In addition to investing in innovative financial solutions, the technical report recommends integrating biodiversity into investment decision-making and assessing and disclosing nature-related dependencies, impacts, risks, and opportunities in line with the GBF targets.

Investors who align their activities with the goals of the GBF will be better positioned to manage physical and transition risks related to nature and to seize opportunities linked to the shift towards nature-positive economies. UNEP FI has been the gateway for financial institutions, policymakers, and leading researchers to take practical, science-based action on international frameworks such as the GBF.

Before the 15th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15), UNEP FI and PRI issued a statement signed by 150 financial institutions, including banks, investors, and insurers, representing over $24 trillion in assets under management, calling for the adoption of an ambitious framework. UNEP FI also works with banks, insurers, and investors to accelerate nature action in the financial industry through initiatives such as pilots for the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), and the Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) Biodiversity Community.

The recent G7 Environment and Climate Ministers’ commitment to combating biodiversity loss and the recommendations from the UNEP FI, PRI, and FfB Foundation report present significant implications for procurement practices. Aligning with these goals will not only foster a more sustainable and environmentally friendly supply chain but also contribute to managing risks associated with biodiversity loss and potential policy developments.

To support these global initiatives, procurement professionals and stakeholders should actively seek to collaborate with suppliers who demonstrate responsible practices, invest in innovative financial solutions, and prioritise environment conservation. Incorporating biodiversity considerations into procurement decision-making processes will not only help organisations comply with the emerging regulatory landscape but also create opportunities for growth in the emerging nature-positive economy.

By championing sustainable procurement strategies and fostering partnerships with environmentally responsible suppliers, procurement teams and stakeholders can play a pivotal role in driving positive change and helping the UK achieve its biodiversity conservation goals in line with the Global Biodiversity Framework.

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UK’s Fight Against Modern Slavery Losing Steam: Analysis Reveals Urgency for Government Action

Post author By Brian M
Post date April 6, 2023

Efforts to combat modern slavery in the UK are running out of steam, and recent analysis from the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) has found that the number of required companies disclosing anti-slavery measures to the Home Office’s modern slavery registry has almost halved from 15,019 to 8,074 in 2022 analysis by the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS).

Under the UK’s Modern Slavery Act 2015, companies with a turnover of over £36 million are required to publish an annual statement outlining the steps taken to address slavery in their supply chains.

However, submitting statements to the registry is voluntary at present, even though more than one-third of organisations believe that modern slavery abuses are likely to occur in the UK, followed by 18% who said China, and fewer than one in ten who said India.

CIPS has called on the government to better enforce transparency rules, as companies have a grace period of six months to produce 2022’s statement. CIPS believes that efforts to submit statements could be declining due to the lack of government pressure.

David Taylor, the Chief Operating Officer for CIPS, stressed that “vulnerable adults and children are exploited every day to produce the goods and services we consume.” He added that “organisations are facing enormous pressures across their supply chains, and in these circumstances, it might be tempting to turn a blind eye to modern slavery and prioritise other challenges. But it is precisely during times of economic hardship that we must be vigilant and keep up our efforts to tackle this issue.”

Furthermore, almost a quarter of the statements submitted last year lacked basic information about the steps being taken, and measurable goals.

The government is expected to introduce a new modern slavery bill to parliament in 2023, which will make submissions to the registry mandatory for qualifying businesses. The bill will also establish an independent anti-slavery commissioner, a role that has been vacant since April 2022.

This issue comes as Rishi Sunak received criticism last week over his flagship immigration measures, which could make it harder for modern slavery and trafficking victims to come forward amid the risk of deportation. The former prime minister, Theresa May, warned that the illegal migration bill would make it more challenging for modern slavery victims to give evidence against traffickers.

The CIPS analysis reveals the urgency of the issue at hand and the need to hold companies to account. We must address modern slavery, especially during times of economic hardship, and ensure that vulnerable individuals are not exploited to produce the goods and services we consume. It’s time for the government to take action and make submissions mandatory for qualifying businesses.

How to write an effective modern slavery statement:

Carry out a full risk assessment on your business and supply chains, detailing where modern slavery could occur.
Be transparent: A modern slavery statement should be transparent and honest. Companies should disclose any potential risks, challenges, and incidents of modern slavery within their supply chain. By being open and transparent, companies can demonstrate their commitment to tackling modern slavery. Your modern slavery statement should be clearly visible on the home page of your website.
Detail company policies and procedures: A modern slavery statement should outline the policies and procedures that the company has in place to address modern slavery in its supply chain. This should include information on how the company assesses suppliers, how it monitors its supply chain, and how it responds to incidents of modern slavery.
Include measurable goals: A modern slavery statement should include measurable goals that the company has set to address modern slavery in its supply chain.
Collaborate with suppliers: A modern slavery statement should outline how the company works with its suppliers to address the risks. This could include training suppliers on modern slavery risks, conducting audits of supplier facilities, and promoting best practices.
Provide regular updates: A modern slavery statement should be updated on a regular basis to reflect any changes in the company’s policies, procedures, or goals. Regular updates help to demonstrate the company’s ongoing commitment to tackling modern slavery in its supply chain.

For more information on how to produce a robust modern slavery risk assessment and statement, contact us at sustainability@value-match.co.uk

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The importance of “Valuing Water” on World Water Day

Post author By Brian M
Post date March 23, 2023

World Water Day is celebrated each year to raise awareness on scarcity issues and the importance of conservation and management of supplies. The event has been observed since 1993, following the recommendation of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), and provides an opportunity to reflect on the ways in which we use water and to evaluate our impact on the environment.

Water is an essential resource for life on earth, yet millions of people lack access to safe and clean supply. In fact, it is estimated that by 2025, half of the world’s population will be living in areas with water scarcity. This year’s theme for World Water Day is “Valuing Water,” which highlights the true value of water beyond its monetary worth.

One of the key messages of World Water Day is the need to ensure access to clean water and sanitation for everyone. This is a fundamental human right that is essential for survival, health, education, and economic development.

Another important message is the need to promote sustainable water resource management. This involves balancing the needs of humans and the environment, as well as ensuring that resources are used in a way that is both efficient and equitable. Sustainable management can help to prevent water scarcity, reduce the impact of climate change, and protect ecosystems and biodiversity.

By balancing water needs and requirements for the environment requires a multidisciplinary approach that considers social and economic factors.

Adopt sustainable management practices such as rainwater harvesting and recycling as well as wastewater treatment can reduce water stress on the environment and ensure equitable access to water.
Encouraging conservation practices such as reducing unnecessary water consumption, fixing leaks, and using water-efficient appliances can support demand and pressure on the environment.
Implementing policies, regulations and institutions that promote equitable distribution and allocation can ensure that water resources are shared fairly and sustainably.
Implementing adaptive management that allows for flexibility and adjustment based on changing environmental conditions can ensure that resources are managed in a sustainable and equitable manner.

A new report by the United Nations highlights the ongoing pressing issue of water scarcity that has been plaguing several regions around the world. Climate change, increased population and demand for water resources has been surging clean sustainable supply has been decreasing. As a result, we have seen water shortages specifically in developing nations, which have far-reaching consequences for local communities.

The report stresses the importance of addressing these issues on a global level through policy interventions, technological innovations, and community-driven initiatives. The report places an emphasis on cooperation and collective action among countries to ensure equitable distribution of clean water to prevent future conflicts arising from scarcity.

How can procurement support this

Implement sustainable procurement practices by considering environmental, social, and economic impact of procurement decisions.
Choose suppliers who prioritise sustainable practices in their operations, products and services.
Implement water-efficient procurement practices by choosing products that use less water in their production and implementing water-saving measures.
Work with suppliers and stakeholders to develop and implement sustainable water management strategies, such as water recycling, rainwater harvesting, and water conservation practices.
Adopt sustainable procurement practices to help ensure the long term availability of water resources and contribute to global efforts to address water scarcity.

News

The importance of Forests on human health & wellbeing

Post author By Brian M
Post date March 16, 2023

International Day of Forests is held annually on March 21^st to increase and raise awareness on the importance of their existence in our lives. This day was established by the United Nations in 2012 and has since been observed by countries around the world. International Day of Forests is an opportunity to recognise and promote their sustainable management and conservation for future generations.

A new report by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations “Forests for human health and wellbeing” details the important benefits forests provide. They are more than just a collection of trees, they purify water, capture carbon and provide food and life-saving medicines. Below we detail 10 benefits healthy forests can provide for human life and communities:

Biodiversity: Forests are home to a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are native only to the UK and cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. Forests are essential in maintaining biodiversity and preserving the ecological balance of our planet.
Carbon storage: Forests are the world’s largest carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which helps mitigate climate change and global warming.
Watershed protection: Forests play a crucial role in protecting watersheds, which are the sources of water for many communities around the world. Trees help to slow down water runoff and filter pollutants, improving water quality and availability.
Soil conservation: Forests help to prevent soil erosion by holding the soil in place with their roots, preventing nutrient loss and preserving soil fertility.
Timber and non-timber products: Forests are an important source of timber and non timber products, such as fruits, nuts, and medicinal plants, which provide economic benefits to local communities.
Recreation and tourism: Forests provide recreational opportunities, such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching, which contribute to the tourism industry and provide economic benefits to local communities.
Climate & Temperature regulation: Forests help to regulate local and regional climates by providing shade and cooling effects, reducing the impacts of extreme weather events, such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves.
Cultural and spiritual values: Forests hold significant cultural and spiritual value for many communities around the world, serving as sacred sites, burial grounds, and places of cultural significance.
Research and education: Forests provide a valuable platform for scientific research and education, allowing us to better understand the complex ecological processes that occur in natural ecosystems.
Habitat restoration: Forests can be used to restore degraded or destroyed ecosystems, providing new habitats for wildlife and helping to maintain ecosystem services such as water and air purification.

Research by Botanic Gardens Conservation International released in 2021 compiled a list of 58,497 tree species worldwide and found that 30% were threatened with extinction and at least 142 species are recorded as extinct already. The recommendations from the research link directly with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which seeks to end poverty, conserve biodiversity and combat climate change whilst improving the livelihoods for everyone, everywhere.

Overall, the health enhancing qualities of forests are a result of multiple and mutually reinforcing benefits, and the role of forests in sustaining and promoting human health varies among continents and regions.

Whether directly or indirectly, forests contribute to the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of individuals and communities, highlighting the importance of maintaining and protecting these vital ecosystems.

Value Match seeks to mitigate climate change across how we operate. We maintain our annual carbon reduction plan which is crucial for tackling climate change and ensuring we continue to have a positive impact on the environment and society. A carbon reduction plan outlines a set of measures to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices.

So how can Procurement help?

Procurement teams and stakeholders should be aware of the importance of the protection and planting of trees as part of their supplier carbon reduction plans and community projects. Having a carbon reduction plan demonstrates the suppliers commitment to reducing their carbon emissions,

If you are interested in developing a carbon reduction plan you will first need to start by calculating your carbon emissions (feel free to use our free carbon calculator) and offset emissions through tree planting projects both within the UK and abroad..

You can also encourage your organisation to switch to using a more sustainable search engine such as Ecosia. This search engine rivals Google but instead uses the revenue generated from your searches to plant trees, and keeps a total for you. Combined across an organisation this can have a fantastic impact!

News

United Nations sign historic agreement to protect the World’s Oceans

Post author By Brian M
Post date March 9, 2023

After a decade of negotiations on funding and fishing rights, a historic agreement to protect the world’s oceans was signed on Saturday 4^th March. The “High Seas Treaty” aims to protect 30% of the worlds oceans by 2030 in order to safeguard and recover marine nature.

The last international agreement of this kind on ocean protection was signed 40 years ago in 1982. The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea established the high seas, international waters where all countries have a right to fish, ship and conduct research, but only 1.2% of these waters are currently protected. As a result, marine life living outside of these protected areas have been at risk of extinction from overfishing and maritime traffic.

In the latest assessment of global marine species, nearly 10% of the worlds marine life were found to be at risk , according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The new protected areas established in the treaty will limit fishing, shipping lanes, and exploration activities like deep-sea mining. Environmental groups have been concerned that mining processes could disturb animal breeding grounds, create noise pollution, and be toxic for marine life.

The International Seabed Authority that oversees licensing has said that any future activity in the deep seabed will be subject to strict environmental regulations and oversight to ensure that research and exploration is carried out sustainably and responsibly.

The main issue to overcome was the sharing of marine genetic resources, which are biological material from plants and animals in the ocean. These have benefits for society, such as pharmaceuticals development, industrial processes, and food. Richer nations currently have the resources and funding to explore the deep ocean, but poorer nations wanted to ensure that any benefits they find are shared equally.

Dr. Robert Blasiak, an ocean researcher at Stockholm University, said that no one knows how much ocean resources are worth and how they could be split, which presents a challenge.

This historic treaty will have significant implications for procurement and stakeholders, particularly for businesses that rely on ocean resources and shipping. The treaty will establish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), which will limit or ban certain activities that may damage marine life. This will ultimately mean that businesses that rely on shipping will need to comply with the conservation objectives of the MPAs, which may restrict fishing, shipping, and exploration activities in some areas.

Businesses should ensure that their sourcing practices align with the treaty’s provisions and that they are contributing positively to the marine ecosystem.

The High Seas Treaty will have huge positive climate and environmental benefit as well as a positive impact on sustainable procurement.

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Fairtrade Fortnight (27th Feb – 12th March): Promoting ethical and sustainable products in the age of climate change and gender based violence

Post author By Brian M
Post date March 2, 2023

It’s Fairtrade Fortnight, an annual event that seeks to raise awareness about the importance of supporting ethical and sustainable products and practices. The event is recognised across many countries including the UK and it brings together individuals, businesses, and organisations to promote the principles of fair trade, including fair prices for producers, safe and healthy working conditions, and environmental sustainability.

Fairtrade International seeks to establish partnerships between producers and consumers by setting standards and certifying products that meet those standards. By choosing Fairtrade products, consumers can support a more just and equitable global economy.

This year, the Fairtrade Foundation has launched an immersive retail experience called , the event focuses on the impact of climate change on everyday items such as bananas, coffee and cocoa. A new report by The Fairtrade Foundation reveals that the supply chains for these products originate from countries that are vulnerable to climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. It emphasise the importance of protecting the future of food and making small switches to support it, as over half of the world’s cocoa production and 50% of surface area currently used for coffee farming may become unviable by 2050 due to climate change.

Safe working conditions are extremely important under Faritrade standards, and recently, an undercover investigation by the BBC Panorama revealed that more than 70 women working on Kenyan tea farms, owned by Unilever and James Finlay & Co have been sexually abused by their superiors. The farms supply tea to major UK brands including PG Tips, Lipton and Sainsbury’s Red Label. The investigation showed exploitation of women that had previously been reported over 10 years ago were still not being acted upon.

Following the BBC investigation, the Foundation released a statement condemning all forms of exploitation, harassment, abuse and violence. Fairtrade International also called for global stakeholders to work together to establish organisational structures that include women in leadership positions, involve women in all reporting and remediation mechanisms and provide safe spaces in the workplace for women to anonymously report instances of gender-based violence and abuse. They demanded that governments ratify the International Labour Organisation’s Convention 190 to combat violence and harassment in the workplace.

This annual event continues to raise awareness on the importance of fair trade and sustainable practices in the production of our daily essentials.

Here’s how Procurement teams and stakeholders can ensure sustainable practices are established in their supply chains mitigating the risk of violence and exploitation.

Conduct thorough supply chain audits: Procurement professionals should conduct regular audits of their supply chains to ensure that the products they source are produced ethically and in compliance with local laws and regulations. Audits should also include checks for labour violations, harassment, and other forms of exploitation.
Buy Fairtrade where possible: Seek out products with the Fairtrade mark. The Fairtrade Scheme is compliant with ISEAL’s Assurance Code, an internationally recognised code for sustainability standards.
Implement supplier codes of conduct: Procurement professionals should establish supplier codes of conduct that outline the ethical standards and principles that suppliers must adhere to. These codes should also include provisions for reporting violations and remediation and comply with organisations such as Fairtrade International standards.
Work with ethical suppliers: Procurement professionals should work with suppliers who have a proven track record of ethical and sustainable production practices. This includes sourcing products from suppliers who are Fairtrade certified, have been verified by third-party auditors, or have a strong commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
Provide training and support: Procurement professionals should provide training and support to their suppliers to help them improve their ethical and sustainable practices. This can include providing training on fair labour practices, environmental sustainability, and responsible sourcing.
Advocate for change: Procurement professionals should use their influence to advocate for change. This can include working with industry groups, lobbying for stronger regulations, and raising awareness about the importance of ethical and sustainable sourcing. By working together, procurement professionals and stakeholders can help create a more ethical and sustainable supply chain.

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Could some of our UK counties be under water by 2050?

Post author By Brian M
Post date February 23, 2023
No Comments on Could some of our UK counties be under water by 2050?

We have previous written about Climate Change and the links between sea level rising, poverty and modern slavery. However, based on current trends and projections , sea level rise is expected to continue throughout the next several decades leading to 2050 and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) suggests that global sea levels will rise by 0.29 to 1.10 meters by 2100, relative to the average sea level between 1986 and 2005.

Whilst it’s difficult to predict with certainty what sea level rise will look like in 2050, it is likely to be somewhere within this range. However, the exact amount of sea level rise will depend on several factors, including the rate of global warming, the melting of glaciers and ice sheets, and changes in ocean circulation patterns.

The rise in levels have a significant impact on our coastal communities and infrastructure, including increased flooding and erosion, as well as more frequent and intense storms. Governments, organisations and individuals are already taking steps to adapt to these changes, however much more can be done to mitigate and reduce our impact

Climate Central has released a new version of their digital elevation model which is a high-accuracy and high resolution global coastal elevation model. The new software has a reduced bias and error scatter compared to previous models.

The map demonstrates communities as far inland as Peterborough, Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire would be underwater by 2050. Communities alongside the River Thames whilst other communities including Portsmouth, Eastbourne and parts of Brighton also stand to suffer the impacts of sea level rising.

The Environmental Agency has set out it’s own risk management strategy to support the nation for flooding and coastal changes. However, what can we do as procurement professionals to help? Below are some examples:

Conduct a supply chain risk assessment: Procurement teams can start by assessing the risks associated with sea level rise, including the impact on operations and infrastructure. This can help identify areas that are most vulnerable and require immediate attention.
Drive your suppliers to adopt sustainable practices: Procurement teams must work with suppliers to help them with the adoption of sustainable practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. This could include setting targets for reducing carbon emissions and encouraging the use of renewable energy sources.
Ensure supply chain resilience: Procurement teams can work with suppliers to ensure that their supply chains are resilient to the impacts of sea level rise, such as flooding and storms. This could include working with suppliers to identify alternative transportation routes and storage facilities.
Review insurance policies and business continuity plans: Procurement should review insurance policies for their suppliers to ensure that they provide adequate coverage for the risks associated. This could include coverage for flood damage and business interruption.
Monitor and adapt: Procurement teams should monitor the changing risks and adapt their strategies accordingly. This could include updating risk assessments, revising supplier requirements, and encouraging suppliers to investing new technologies and infrastructure.

By taking these and other measures, procurement teams can help mitigate the impacts of sea level rise and ensure the resilience of their supply chains and operations.

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Are the recent devastating earthquakes a result of climate change? The Connection Explained and how those communities are further impacted by the risk of modern slavery?

Earthquakes are a natural phenomenon that occur due to the movement of tectonic plates within the Earth’s crust, and as a result, contribute to a threat to life, significant damage to communities and affect the lives of millions of people. Recent events have highlighted a growing concern around the relationship between earthquakes and climate change.

Whilst they are not directly caused by climate change, there is evidence to suggest that there are links. Our climate impacts the behaviour of the Earth’s crust in several ways. For example, changes in temperature and rainfall patterns can alter the water content of soil and rocks, and we are already seeing the intensity of hurricanes and adverse weather events increase. Alterations in soil and rocks increases the stress levels within the crust, contributing to more movement in the plates.

Turkey and Syria are currently suffering an overwhelming loss of life due to the catastrophic and destructive 7.8 magnitude earthquake that has killed over 41,000 people (a number that sadly continues to rise). The event has added further strain to the region with Syria currently going through a civil war.

Furthermore, there will be a significant impact on all those individuals and families displaced from their homes and communities, let alone separated from loved ones.

Displacement can create conditions that make people extremely vulnerable to modern slavery and human trafficking.

They may be forced to take on jobs that they would not have considered before the earthquake, just to survive and make money.
They are likely to be targeted by human traffickers who are looking for vulnerable individuals to exploit.
The breakdown of social structures and support networks can leave them without the protection of their community.

There are a number of steps that need be taken to help prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in the aftermath of a such a destructive event, and businesses should be prepared:

Education and awareness campaigns must support people in understanding the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking within their business. This can include information about how to spot the signs of exploitation and how to protect themselves from traffickers.
Understanding and addressing the root causes of modern slavery, including poverty, inequality and discrimination. By working to create an equal society and economies, we can prevent conditions that make people vulnerable to exploitation.
Continuing to carry out effective due diligence on your suppliers and understanding the employment checks they have in their processes

In conclusion, not only is there a link but we need to consider the ongoing impacts of the aftermath of such an event. It is essential that we take steps to protect displaced people and prevent exploitation in the wake of these disasters. By working together, we can build more resilient communities that are better equipped to withstand the challenges and threats that go hand in hand with natural disasters like these.

Should your business need help understanding what you can do in the future to ensure you are acting more responsibly and having a greater social impact, then contact us at sustainability@value-match.co.uk for more information or a brief chat.

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Climate Change & Procurement Webinar

Post author By Brian M
Post date February 10, 2023
No Comments on Climate Change & Procurement Webinar

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More droughts this year as groundwater reserves are expected to dry up by summer across the continent

Post author By Brian M
Post date February 9, 2023
No Comments on More droughts this year as groundwater reserves are expected to dry up by summer across the continent

Climate change is affecting the Earth’s water cycle ( the continuous movement of water on, above and below the surface) , leading to more frequent and intense droughts which, in turn, are having a significant impact on our reserve levels .

This reduction is disrupting supply chains and procurement processes for water-intensive industries, such as agriculture and manufacturing. As the demand for water continues to ever increase, companies are facing the challenge of securing sufficient water resources to meet their needs. This has resulted in turning to alternative sources, such as desalination (the process of removing salt from seawater) to ensure business continuity of their supply chains. Climate change is not only worsening existing water scarcity issues, but also creating new challenges for procurement and supply chains, highlighting the need for proactive planning and adaptation strategies.

Europe is now facing a potential water catastrophe as groundwater reserves are drying up year on year. The increasing heat from global warming, particularly in the form of hot summers has led to a sharp drop in surface water levels since 2018 that have not been restored due to heatwaves across the continent. As a result, this is affecting wildlife, habitats and agriculture.

Dr Torsten Mayer-Gurr, a professor at the Graz University of Technology in Austria and author of this research has stated he never would have imagined water being a problem in Europe only a few years ago. The research was conducted using satellite gravimetry, a specialised method of measuring groundwater resources and their changes, which showed that the water situation in Europe is becoming increasingly precarious.

The UK experienced its warmest year on record in 2022, with an average temperature of over 10C and reaching 40C.

Procurement professionals can play a crucial role in mitigating and preventing groundwater loss through their supply chain by implementing the following measures:

Conducting water footprint assessments of suppliers and products to identify high-risk areas.
Promoting water-efficient practices among suppliers, such as reducing water use in production processes and promoting water-saving technologies.
Incorporating sustainability criteria, such as water use and management, into procurement processes and supplier selection criteria. Encouraging the use of recycled water and alternative sources of water for production processes.
Collaborating with suppliers and other stakeholders to implement sustainable water management practices, such as rainwater harvesting and recharge of aquifers.

By taking these steps, procurement professionals can help reduce the impact of their supply chain on groundwater and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Public sector procurement can be the lever and answer for positive change and a leader in achieving a net zero future. Which is why we’re encouraging procurement professionals, stakeholders and the wider community to sign the petition to amend the Procurement Bill to enshrine positive environmental legal obligations.

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