Frequently asked questions
What is the NHS net zero target?
The NHS net zero target is set out in the Delivering a Net Zero National Health Service report and the Health and Care Act 2022. It commits the NHS to reaching net zero across its direct emissions by 2040 and across its full supply chain (including all supplier NHS carbon emissions) by 2045. For suppliers, this target is embedded into procurement through the NHS Net Zero Supplier Roadmap, which sets mandatory milestones from 2023 through to 2045.
What if I am an SME?
The PPN 006 NHS compliance requirements apply to all suppliers regardless of size. Some SMEs may qualify for a two-year grace period under specific circumstances, but the 2027 global Scope 3 reporting requirement is universal.
If you are currently on or bidding for any NHS framework, you need a compliant NHS Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) now. Green Earth works with SMEs specifically, providing the expertise of a sustainability department without the cost of building one in-house.
Do I need to report global Scope 3 emissions?
Yes, the current requirement only covers five Scope 3 categories. From April 2027, reporting must include all 15 GHG Protocol categories, and the boundary shifts from UK-only operations to your global footprint, the net zero NHS mandate is explicit on this point. If your business is a subsidiary of an overseas parent in France or the US, that parent's emissions must be included.
Is my current sustainability policy enough?
No, unless you've covered everything from the previous checklist. NHS compliance requires a specific PPN 06/21 (now PPN 006) Carbon Reduction Plan, a structured document with emission baselines, reduction targets, board sign-off, and a commitment to the NHS net zero target of 2045.
A general sustainability policy does not meet the Evergreen Sustainable Supplier Assessment requirements and will be rejected by the NHS CRP checking service.
What is the Evergreen Sustainable Supplier Assessment?
Evergreen is the NHS portal where suppliers upload their NHS Carbon Reduction Plans and answer qualitative sustainability questions. There are four maturity levels. From April 2026, Level 1 is the minimum for any contract award. Levels 2–4 are increasingly required for high-value or complex frameworks, and reflect deeper NHS compliance across supply chain engagement, social value, and carbon reduction ambition. Green Earth supports your progression through all four levels.
How do I develop a net zero NHS estates strategy?
If you are a facilities management, catering, or logistics supplier, your path to NHS compliance includes both an organisational Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) and, increasingly, estate-level net zero planning.
This means mapping your building energy use, fleet emissions, and waste streams against the NHS Net Zero Supplier Roadmap milestones. Green Earth helps estates and FM suppliers structure this data, build the Scope 3 supply chain picture, and develop a credible, site-level reduction plan that satisfies both PPN 006 and Evergreen requirements.
What happens if I miss the April 2027 NHS deadline?
From April 2027, suppliers who cannot demonstrate full global Scope 3 reporting across all 15 categories will be ineligible for new NHS contract awards and framework renewals.
The financial and reputational cost of missing this NHS compliance deadline is significant. Building your data collection process now, not in 2027, is the only way to be ready in time.