What is UN Compact's Coalition for Sustainable Procurement?
The UN Global Compact has introduced the Coalition for Sustainable Procurement, an initiative designed to position procurement as a key component in advancing sustainable business practices and enhancing business value and competitiveness.
Integrating procurement with sustainability
Rooted in the UN Global Compact's Sustainable Supply Chains & SMEs Programme, the Coalition provides a collaborative platform for companies dedicated to incorporating sustainability throughout their procurement processes.
This will ensure that supply chains are not only more efficient, but also more equitable, inclusive and resilient.
Despite its critical role in business, procurement remains underutilised in promoting corporate sustainability.
Although awareness has grown regarding the importance of responsible business, procurement often operates independently from broader sustainability initiatives.
However, integrating procurement and sustainability not only enhances cost efficiency but also unveils new revenue opportunities, creating a financial multiplier effect as a strategic asset of sustainable sourcing.
The coalition's goal is to unite Chief Procurement Officers (CPOs), Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) and public sector leaders to collaboratively shape a future where procurement aligns fully with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Visionary leadership for systemic transformation
Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, states: "The Coalition for Sustainable Procurement is about transforming systems, not just supply chains."
By embedding sustainability into sourcing decisions, transformation can occur across entire industries and geographies.
This coalition will serve as a powerful platform to elevate procurement leaders as sustainability advocates and ensure even the smallest suppliers contribute to a just and inclusive global economy.
The identities of the coalition's founding members will be revealed on 25 September 2025, at the Chrysler Building in New York.
This event will gather CPOs, CSOs and ministers to identify shared challenges, opportunities and pathways for enhancing sustainable procurement practices.
A public-private roundtable will initiate a series of engagements to accelerate knowledge sharing, foster innovation and promote action within corporate supply networks.
Ambitious targets and inclusive partnerships
The coalition's inaugural year aims include releasing a State of Sustainable Procurement analysis, developing a practical framework for sustainable procurement, and co-creating guidance and tools for implementation.
It also seeks to formally engage ecosystem partners — such as policymakers, UN agencies, industry platforms and civil society organisations — to enhance collaboration and align efforts for systemic impact.
The coalition actively recruits leaders from essential industries and strategic supply chains while maintaining a commitment to broad-based participation across all sectors and business sizes.
Through its ambitious goal of engaging 100,000 businesses by 2030, the coalition prioritises partnerships with small and medium enterprises and suppliers, equipping them with essential resources, expertise, and pathways to thrive in the transition to sustainable commerce.
Organisations interested in joining or exploring the Coalition for Sustainable Procurement can contact the UN Global Compact Sustainable Supply Chains & SMEs Team at [email protected].
Explore the latest edition of Sustainability Magazine and be part of the conversation at our global conference series, Sustainability LIVE.
Discover all our upcoming events and secure your tickets today.
Sustainability Magazine is a BizClik brand