What Is PPN 006?
Procurement Policy Note 006 (PPN 006) requires all central government departments and their agencies to take account of carbon reduction plans when procuring goods and services. From 2026, this is playing an increasingly important role in NHS procurement.
Why It Matters for NHS Suppliers
The NHS has committed to reaching net zero by 2040 for emissions it directly controls, and by 2045 for its wider supply chain. PPN 006 is the mechanism through which this commitment flows into procurement decisions.
What you need:
- A Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) published on your website
- Evidence of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions measurement
- A clear roadmap to net zero with milestones
- Demonstration of environmental management practices
Social Value and Sustainability
PPN 006 sits alongside the Social Value Act 2012 and PPN 06/20, which requires a minimum 10% weighting for social value in government contracts. Together, these policies mean that NHS suppliers must demonstrate:
- Carbon reduction commitments
- Community benefits and local employment
- Workforce diversity and inclusion
- Support for SMEs and voluntary organisations
How to Strengthen Your Position
- Publish your Carbon Reduction Plan — this is a minimum requirement
- Quantify your social value — use frameworks like TOMs (Themes, Outcomes and Measures)
- Embed sustainability in your bid responses — make it tangible, not aspirational
- Partner with organisations that strengthen your environmental credentials
How CPGB Ltd Can Help
We help healthcare suppliers develop compelling social value and sustainability strategies that win tenders. Our support includes:
- Carbon Reduction Plan development
- Social value strategy and measurement
- Bid response support for sustainability questions
- Social value training for bid teams
Contact us to discuss how we can strengthen your sustainability credentials.