Delivering a net zero supply chain
The University of Leeds is taking steps to cut the climate impact of the goods, services and resources it uses through a new Net Zero Supply Chain and Resources Delivery Plan.
Around 70% of the University's reported greenhouse gas emissions come from products and services bought, and resources consumed.
The new plan builds on a legacy of sustainable procurement initiatives and focuses on areas where the University can make the biggest difference, from working with suppliers to keeping goods in use for longer and supporting more sustainable purchasing decisions across campus.
It is a key part of the University's Climate Plan and net zero goals, and sets out how we will work towards reducing emissions associated with purchasing, construction, waste and water.
What the plan covers
The Net Zero Supply Chain and Resources Delivery Plan focuses on emissions from purchased goods and services, capital goods, and waste, recycling & wastewater, which are classified as 'scope 3 emissions' within the University's emissions reporting standards.
By combining action on procurement, waste and water, the plan takes a full life‑cycle view of resource use. It complements work within our Climate Plan designed to tackle emissions from other sources including our estate and travel.
Recognising that supplier emissions are outside of our direct control, it includes specific targets around supplier emissions disclosure and carbon reduction plans, reducing non-recycled waste and water usage, and increasing the quantity of goods made from recycled materials or repurposed and reused within the University, as well as training and resources to support staff involved in procurement.
It also incorporates actions to achieve a fair and inclusive transition, deliver social value, maintain and improve ethical standards and support responsible business practices across our supply chain.
Together these targets aim to further embed sustainable procurement across the organisation and support science-aligned reductions in the greenhouse gas emissions associated with supply chain and resources.
Sustainable Development Goals
We use the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework to guide our activity. Our work on sustainable procurement is linked to the following SDGs:
- Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- Goal 13: Climate Action
Find out more about our impact on the SDGs.