Three events to tell you about.
Next Monday, March 21st (the spring equinox, no less) has been designated “World Sustainable Procurement Day” by the team at the Sustainable Procurement Pledge initiative. There is an impressive-looking range of virtual events throughout the day, with quite a range of Procurement with Purpose topics, from Scope 3 emissions to social value and diversity in the supply chain. Some are sector or industry specific – such as “Chemical Supply Chains for a Better World” and some are topic related such as the fascinating-sounding “How students and young professionals transform corporate supply chains for the better”. You can register for sessions here – all free of charge as far as I can see.
Then on Wednesday 23rd March, at 3m UK time, I’m talking about some similar topics during a “fireside chat” hosted by software firm Vizibl. The basis of the discussion will be “Thinking and Acting Beyond Carbon: Scope 3 emissions and procurement with Purpose”. What I hope to do is explain how organisations can and should develop a broad sustainable procurement /procurement with purpose strategy and approach. Emissions will of course be a core topic for years to come, but having purpose in your organisation means a lot more than simply asking your suppliers to give you a Scope 3 number. Register here – free of charge again.
Finally, it’s good to see CIPS teaming up with the Sustainable Procurement Pledge team for a major live event in London on May 17th / 18th. The Sustainable Procurement Summit “not only gives you the chance to connect with other leaders, but the opportunity to share insights and find solutions to tackle your sustainability goals that will drive your business forward. Designed for CPOs and procurement leaders who are setting and implementing strategies for their supply chains, this event gives you the tools to manage the full range of issues in this complex field …” However, this one isn’t free and early bird tickets are £649 for CIPS members and £849 for others – and online tickets are the same price, which seems a little unusual. You can book here.