Our current way of living is not sustainable, and we are living beyond the means of our planet to support us. This is leading to severe problems such as climate change and resource depletion. We therefore need to find a new model for development which strikes a balance between economic growth, social progress and environmental stewardship, and which is sustainable in the long term.
The UK is the first country in the world to adopt a legally binding target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050.
The MOD, because of its purchasing power and scope of its business, has an important part to play in achieving this target and tackling resource depletion.
Sustainable procurement is also critical to delivering Defence capability. Climate change, resource depletion and competition for energy have been identified as significant challenges to global stability and therefore national security. Understanding and adapting to these challenges will be critical to delivering Defence capability and ensuring operational sustainability in the long-term.
The MOD is committed to embedding Sustainable Development principles in all areas and at all stages of its acquisition process. This includes:
- Taking a through-life approach to procurement to deliver solutions which consider all aspects of Sustainable Development, and maintain and improve operational sustainability
- Ensuring investment proposals address Sustainable Development issues
- Working with our supply chain to embed the principles of sustainable solutions
These work-strands will be managed as a comprehensive Sustainable Procurement Programme.