Green Procurement Playbook 2025

How to make collaboration work Start with a focused, shared mission: The strongest alliances begin with a clear scope, often solving a specific, shared problem. Over time, as trust builds, initiatives can expand their scope.21 Set up neutral governance and clear expectations on contribution: Effective partnerships require structures such as steering committees and working groups, with membership according to specific criteria. To avoid free-riding, they establish explicit resource commitments. Ensure legal safeguards from the outset: Many initiatives rely on anonymized data, third-party facilitation, clear legal guidance and even engaged regulators.Create shared tools and metrics: Standard platforms, templates and scoring systems reduce friction and enable scale. Build trust incrementally: Transparency and mutual accountability are essential. Peer review and recognition mechanisms, such as the Sustainable Procurement Pledge’s (SPP) League of Champions, keep the momentum going. Don’t forget supplier voices: The best collaborations engage not only buyers but also suppliers, especially those who bear the brunt of shifting expectations. Co-creating roadmaps, conducting pilot projects or offering shared training helps lead suppliers to action, not just compliance. It started at Davos in 2011. Our CEO came back saying: ‘We’ve committed to sustainability, but how do we actually do it?’ That’s when we started TfS. Bayer Green Procurement Playbook: The CPO’s Guide to Delivering Value for Business and Planet 40