What should be included in a Carbon Reduction Plan?

A compliant CRP must include: commitment to Net Zero by 2050, baseline emissions data for Scope 1, 2 and 3, current year reporting, reduction targets and actions, and a signed management declaration.

How to Create a Carbon Reduction Plan for UK Tenders

Q: What is PPN 06/21 and who does it apply to?

PPN 06/21 (now PPN 006) is a UK government Procurement Policy Note requiring suppliers bidding for contracts over £5 million annually to submit a Carbon Reduction Plan. It applies to central government and NHS contracts.

Q: How often should CRPs be updated?

Carbon Reduction Plans should be updated annually to reflect current emissions data, progress against targets, and any changes to reduction strategies.

By Frazer Holroyd · 18 min read · Carbon Reporting · October 2025

If you're bidding for UK government or NHS contracts over £5 million, you need a compliant Carbon Reduction Plan under PPN 06/21 (now PPN 006). This guide walks through the complete process step-by-step — from data collection to final submission.

What Is a Carbon Reduction Plan?

A Carbon Reduction Plan is a formal document showing your organisation's current greenhouse gas emissions baseline, your commitment to Net Zero by 2050, and the specific measures you will take to reduce emissions. It must follow the Crown Commercial Service Annex A template and be published on your website.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Gather 12 months of energy, fuel, travel, and procurement data
Step 2: Calculate Scope 1 emissions (company vehicles, gas, on-site combustion)
Step 3: Calculate Scope 2 emissions (purchased electricity)
Step 4: Calculate relevant Scope 3 emissions (business travel, waste, supply chain)
Step 5: Set a baseline year and document reduction targets
Step 6: Identify specific reduction measures with timelines
Step 7: Complete the Annex A template with a signed declaration
Step 8: Publish on your company website

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Excluding Scope 3 emissions, using non-GHG Protocol methods, omitting baseline year data, failing to update annually, and submitting unsigned declarations are the most common causes of tender rejection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PPN 06/21 and who does it apply to?

A UK government policy requiring suppliers bidding for contracts over £5 million annually to submit a Carbon Reduction Plan.

What should be included in a CRP?

Net Zero by 2050 commitment, baseline and current Scope 1-3 emissions, reduction targets and actions, and a signed declaration.

How often should CRPs be updated?

Annually, to reflect current emissions data and progress against targets.

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