Green Procurement Playbook 2025

Building blocks for green procurement3 This chapter expands on the insights of the eight building blocks to help organizations become leaders in green procurement. For each building block, the following key points are highlighted: –Common challenges that organizations face. –Practical approaches and frameworks for implementation. –Best practices from leading organizations. –Real-world case studies, including direct quotes and insights from CPOs. Building block 1 CPO influence and executive leadership buy-in Green procurement has become a critical part of achieving corporate sustainability, especially with pressure to address scope 3 emissions. Yet in many organizations it remains sidelined – often delegated to sustainability teams – while procurement overall is viewed as purely tactical, focused on reducing costs. This is a missed opportunity. With its reach across suppliers, internal stakeholders and decision points, procurement is uniquely positioned to make a difference within an organization and across supply chains.4 It deserves a seat at the table.The challenge lies in changing perceptions and building internal credibility. CPOs must translate sustainability into business terms, showing how it boosts resilience, mitigates risk and unlocks value. Without that link, executive buy-in remains shallow and initiatives and investments stall. Leaders put resources into other priorities. The companies making the most progress are those where CPOs step up – not just as buyers, but as leaders of change. Green Procurement Playbook: The CPO’s Guide to Delivering Value for Business and Planet 18