The AXREM Sustainability & Social Value Special Focus Group (SFG) is a dynamic and collaborative forum supporting our members as they align with the NHS’s ambitious journey to Net Zero and deliver meaningful social value across the healthcare supply chain.
With over 60% of the NHS carbon footprint sitting within its supply chain, our sector plays a pivotal role in reducing emissions and driving sustainable innovation.
AXREM is proud to represent our members on national platforms including the Department of Health and Social Care’s Design for Life Programme and the NHS England Sustainable Supplier Forum, helping shape policy, procurement, and sustainability standards. We also collaborate extensively with external organisations, and are pleased to now welcome active participation from the BHTA, RCR, NHS Supply Chain, IPEM, NHS Scotland, and NHS Wales all contributing to these vital discussions.
NHS Net Zero Roadmap: Key Milestones
The NHS Supplier Roadmap sets out clear expectations for suppliers:
- April 2023: Suppliers with contracts over £5 million must publish a Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) for direct emissions (PPN 06/21)
- April 2024: CRP requirement expands to all new NHS contracts, regardless of value
- April 2027: CRPs must include both direct and indirect emissions for all suppliers
- April 2028: Product-level carbon footprinting requirements introduced
- 2030: Suppliers must demonstrate progress through published reports and emissions tracking to qualify for NHS contracts
SMEs and VCSEs benefit from a two-year grace period on key milestones leading up to 2030.
AXREM Sustainability Manifesto: Sector Priorities
Published in 2024, the AXREM Sustainability Manifesto outlines our commitment to:
- Environmental Responsibility: Tackling climate change and its impact on public health
- Healthcare Alignment: Supporting NHS goals through sustainable innovation and procurement
- Circular Economy: Promoting reuse, recycling, and responsible end-of-life management
- Transparency & Reporting: Encouraging clear, consistent carbon reporting across suppliers
- Social Value Integration: Embedding community benefit, equity, and wellbeing into business practices
- Collaborative Advocacy: Engaging with NHS bodies, regulators, and trade partners to shape policy
Group Activities and Engagement
The Sustainability & Social Value SFG is open to all AXREM member companies and offers a collaborative space to:
- Discuss NHS timelines and policy updates
- Share implementation strategies and positive outcomes
- Identify challenges and support needs
- Explore social value requirements and reporting frameworks
- Plan informative webinars and member resources
Our members are committed to going beyond compliance driving innovation, accountability, and impact across the healthcare supply chain. The group continues to publish helpful resources and guidance to support members on their sustainability journey.
If your an existing AXREM member and wish to join this group please email naomi.bedford@axrem.org.uk or a potential member and would like to discuss this group further please contact sally.edgington@axrem.org.uk