Scotland is committed to addressing the climate emergency, which includes achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2045 or sooner.
This means that by 2045, Scotland intends to add no more carbon into the atmosphere than the amount we are removing.
Under climate change legislation public bodies have a duty to address:
climate mitigation - reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change
adaptation - deliberate and systematic adjustment of systems and processes to effectively address both anticipated and actual climate change impacts
and to act sustainably - in a way that minimises damage to the environment
The Scottish Public Sector is committed that the transition to a net zero and climate resilient economy will be delivered fairly, and tackle inequality and justice. This is referred to as a Just Transition.
What Does this Mean When Bidding for Public Sector Contracts?
How we procure goods, services and works is a key way to achieve net zero carbon emissions and respond to the Climate Emergency e.g. by shifting away from the use of fossil fuels (coal, gas and oil) and/or reuse of existing goods instead of buying new.
This means that public sector buyers will now increasingly expect their suppliers to provide low carbon goods, services and works, and deliver circular solutions.
You can find out more on what buyers are being asked to do on the climate emergency in SPPN 3/2022 Public procurement - taking account of climate and circular economy considerations and Public sector procurement and climate change.
To find out more go to What Do I Need to Do on Climate?