As the urgency for environmental and social responsibility grows, organizations are changing their approach to sustainable purchasing from simply meeting compliance requirements to actively implementing sustainable practices. Barton Finn, our expert on sustainable procurement, emphasizes the rising expectations for transparency, local sourcing, and innovation in procurement strategies.
This article is an edited version of content initially published on Decision-achats.fr.
1. From “why” to “how”
“Ten years ago, convincing organizations to adopt responsible purchasing practices was challenging,” explains Barton Finn. Since then, the debate has moved from “why” to “how.” Awareness has already been raised; the emphasis is now on concrete implementation supported by tools, methodologies and shared resources.
2. From incentive to obligation, and the art of turning it into opportunities
Legislation is evolving rapidly. In Europe, new approaches such as mandatory sustainable public procurement considerations and environmental reporting obligations are transforming a voluntary approach into a legal imperative. “These requirements, directly or indirectly, force companies to measure and reduce the carbon footprint of their purchases,” emphasizes Barton Finn.
3. Increasing demand for reliable data
The accuracy of information regarding products and services is becoming increasingly important. “Companies are now required to provide tangible evidence of their sustainability claims,” emphasizes Barton Finn. This shift, prompted by new regulations and heightened consumer awareness, fosters a more transparent environment. In other words, purchasing departments seek to go beyond mere statements and strengthen their relationships with suppliers by relying on accurate and reliable data.
4. The rise of local purchasing
Due to geopolitical tensions and concerns about supply chains, local purchasing is becoming increasingly important. “The European Union, once a strong advocate for free competition, is starting to favor local suppliers, especially in public procurement,” notes Barton Finn.
5. New dedicated functions
Companies and public administrations are now incorporating specialized roles focused on responsible purchasing. Barton Finn notes, “The increase in skills in this area is remarkable. We are witnessing the emergence of positions such as “Sustainable Purchasing Manager” and “Sustainability Officer,” which demonstrate a serious commitment to sustainability. From a strategic perspective, organizations progressively integrate social responsibility considerations into their purchasing processes to align with sustainable development objectives. Some purchasing functions also contribute to corporate social responsibility (CSR), particularly when a significant part of the carbon footprint falls under scope 3 emissions. Additionally, companies are investing in training their teams to incorporate sustainability principles into their purchasing practices.”
6. Increased requirements on supply chains
Companies seek to ensure that their suppliers meet standards equivalent to those applied in Europe, particularly regarding working conditions. Barton Finn explains: “This reflects a growing awareness of the global impact of purchasing on human rights and the environment.” This trend is becoming more acute as consumers and regulators alike demand greater visibility on the origin of products.
7. The rise of technological platforms and tools
Organizations are adopting digital tools to monitor supplier performance and analyze sustainability risks. Barton Finn explains that when you buy products marked with TCO Certified, you can access independently verified data and claims to help you measure sustainability impacts. Data is available in Product Finder, and in the tool Report Generator, you can create customized IT product sustainability reports based on the certified IT products you buy and use.
8. The boom in reconditioned and circular
The market for reconditioned goods, particularly in the IT sector, is experiencing structural development. “This reflects a major change in mentalities, where the circular economy is becoming the norm rather than the exception,” explains Finn. Companies are turning to models that promote product reuse, repair and recycling to reduce their ecological footprint.
TCO Certified is a global, comprehensive sustainability certification with everything included. It addresses sustainability issues connected to IT products and their supply chains and helps you make responsible choices, reduce risk, and meet regulatory obligations.
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