Coalition for Sustainable Procurement Driving Transformation
The UN Global Compact has launched the Coalition for Sustainable Procurement, with this initiative created to elevate procurement as a central lever for advancing sustainable business and driving business value and competitiveness.
Bridging the gap between procurement and sustainability
Anchored in the UN Global Compact's Sustainable Supply Chains & SMEs Programme, the Coalition will create a space which will see companies committed to embedding sustainability across their procurement practices come together.
This will ensure that supply chains are not only more efficient, but also more equitable, inclusive and resilient.
Despite its overarching place in business, procurement is still underutilised in the function of shaping corporate sustainability.
Whilst it has increased in recognition of the need for responsible business, procurement is often siloed from broader sustainability efforts.
However, if procurement and sustainability are merged, not only will it drive cost efficiency, but will also open up new revenue streams. This in turn will create a financial multiplier which is another strategic asset from sustainable sourcing.
The coalition's objective is to bring together Chief Procurement Officers (CPOs), Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) and public sector leaders to collectively shape a future in which procurement is fully aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Leadership vision for systemic change
Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, says: "The Coalition for Sustainable Procurement is not just about changing supply chains — it's about changing systems."
"By putting sustainability at the heart of sourcing decisions, we can drive transformation across entire industries and geographies.
"This coalition will be a powerful platform to elevate procurement leaders as sustainability champions and ensure that even the smallest suppliers are part of a just and inclusive global economy."
The companies which make up the founding members of the team are yet to be announced, but will be confirmed on 25 September 2025, at the Chrysler Building in New York.
During this flagship event will gather CPOs, CSOs and ministers to identify shared challenges, opportunities and pathways for strengthening sustainable procurement practices.
A public-private roundtable will mark the first in a series of engagements designed to accelerate knowledge sharing, foster innovation and drive action across corporate supply networks.
Ambitious goals and inclusive partnership approach
There are also a number of aims for the coalition for its inaugural year, which includes releasing a State of Sustainable Procurement analysis, building a practical framework for sustainable procurement and co-creating guidance and tools for implementation.
It also looks to formally engage with ecosystem partners – including policymakers, UN agencies, industry platforms and civil society organisations – to deepen collaboration and align efforts for systemic impact.
The coalition actively recruits leadership from critical industries and strategic supply chains whilst maintaining a strong commitment to broad-based participation that spans all sectors and business scales.
Through its ambitious goal of engaging 100,000 businesses by 2030, the coalition prioritises partnership with small and medium enterprises and suppliers, providing them with essential resources, expertise and pathways to succeed in the transition to sustainable commerce.
Organisations seeking to join or explore the Coalition for Sustainable Procurement can contact the UN Global Compact Sustainable Supply Chains & SMEs Team at [email protected].
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