Compliance · 1 March 2026
NHS Scope 3 2027: What Every Supplier Needs to Know Now
From April 2027, all NHS suppliers must publish a Carbon Reduction Plan covering global Scope 1, 2, and all relevant Scope 3 emissions. Here is what you need to do to prepare.
The 2027 Deadline Is Closer Than You Think
From April 2027, the NHS will require all suppliers — regardless of contract value — to publish a comprehensive Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) that covers global Scope 1, 2, and all relevant Scope 3 emissions. This represents a significant expansion from the current requirements, which apply only to contracts above £5 million per annum.
What Is Scope 3?
Scope 3 emissions are indirect emissions that occur in a company's value chain — both upstream (suppliers, purchased goods) and downstream (use of sold products, end-of-life treatment). For most organisations, Scope 3 accounts for 70–90% of their total carbon emissions, making it the most significant and most challenging category to measure and report.
The NHS Evergreen Framework
The NHS Evergreen Sustainable Supplier Assessment is the mechanism through which the NHS engages suppliers on their sustainability programme. It covers a range of sustainability topics including carbon, waste, water, and social value. From 2027, full Scope 3 reporting will be a mandatory component of Evergreen compliance.
Steps to Take Now
Organisations that act early will be better positioned to win NHS contracts and demonstrate genuine leadership on sustainability. The key steps are: establish a baseline carbon emissions covering all three scopes; identify your most material Scope 3 categories; develop a credible reduction strategy with science-aligned targets; publish your Carbon Reduction Plan in line with PPN006 requirements.
How Net Zero International Can Help
We specialise in helping NHS suppliers navigate the full compliance programme — from baseline carbon accounting through to published, independently verified Carbon Reduction Plans. Contact us today to discuss your requirements.
