Green Public Procurement with the CO₂ Performance Ladder

National Coordinator for the Implementation of the Ladder in Germany

The CO₂ Performance Ladder is an easy and effective tool that drives decarbonisation in organisations by helping them reduce their carbon emissions internally, in projects, and in their supply chain. The instrument is used as both a CO₂ management system and as a procurement tool.

In procurement, the Ladder supports procurement officials to prioritise sustainability and stimulate CO₂ reduction in a systematic way and thus make a significant positive impact on the climate. With a certificate on one of the five steps of the Ladder, organisations receive an award advantage for their registration on tenders.

Developed by the Foundation for Climate Friendly Procurement and Business (SKAO), the instrument has empowered organisations across Europe to manage and reduce their carbon footprint while gaining competitive advantages in public procurement processes. In the Netherlands and Belgium, the Ladder is the key Green Public Procurement (GPP) tool with over 300 public authorities using the instrument during their tendering processes. Additionally, around 5000 organisations in the Netherlands have been awarded certificates for their standing on the CO₂ Performance Ladder.

As of August 2024, the CSCP has assumed the role of national coordinator for the CO₂ Performance Ladder in Germany, joining France, Ireland, the UK and Portugal in rolling out this (CO₂ management system and procurement) tool. Recognising the urgent need for comprehensive ecological, social, and economic responsibility, the CSCP will lead efforts to integrate the Ladder into multiple public tenders over a one-year pilot phase. You can read more about the CO₂ Performance Ladder roll out in Germany here.

The CSCP aims to promote awareness and adoption of sustainable public procurement practices throughout public authorities in Germany, working closely with municipalities, federal states, ministries, private companies and industry associations. The CSCP will also engage with other national partners and foster a Community of Practice to share experiences and learnings.

Practical support from international partners, including the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability and the Centre for Public Procurement at the Utrecht University, will further enhance implementation efforts.

The CO₂ Performance Ladder serves not only as a management tool for CO₂ emissions but also as a catalyst for innovation and efficiency improvements within organisations and across projects. By engaging stakeholders and driving continuous improvement in emission reduction strategies, the CSCP and its partners aim to lead Germany towards a more sustainable future aligned with national and international climate goals.

For queries, please contact the CO₂ Performance Ladder Helpdesk for Germany here.