Greening the Supply Chain: The Hidden Engine of Net Zero

When we talk about achieving net zero, conversations often focus on the big, visible changes – switching to renewable energy, electrifying transport, or developing new low-carbon products. But there’s a less visible, equally powerful engine of decarbonisation: the supply chain.

Across every sector, the vast majority of emissions don’t come from a company’s own operations, but from what happens upstream and downstream – in how materials are sourced, how goods are transported, and how partners operate. For many organisations, these Scope 3 emissions account for 70–90% of their total carbon footprint. That’s why greening the supply chain isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s essential if we’re serious about net zero.

At Notch, we see this every day. The businesses making the fastest progress are those treating their supply chains as extensions of their sustainability strategy. They’re asking tough questions, setting measurable expectations, and supporting suppliers to innovate and reduce their carbon impact. It’s not about blame -it’s about partnership, transparency, and shared responsibility.

Why suppliers need a plan

If you’re a supplier, you’re already feeling this shift. Large customers are increasingly requiring detailed sustainability data, carbon reduction plans, and evidence of continuous improvement. This isn’t just compliance – it’s the new standard for doing business.

Having a clear, credible decarbonisation plan is no longer optional; it’s becoming a key differentiator in competitive tenders. Those who act now to embed sustainability into their operations will be better placed to win contracts, attract investment, and future-proof their business.

Leading by example: Forth Ports Limited.

A great example of this in action is Forth Ports, who are leading the way in turning their entire supply chain green.

Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond their own operations – they’re actively engaging with suppliers, from construction firms to logistics partners, to reduce carbon across every stage of their value chain.

This systems-level thinking is already paying dividends. Forth Ports is not only reducing its environmental impact but also strengthening business value – through improved resilience, greater efficiency, and enhanced reputation. It’s proof that when sustainability is built into every link of the chain, everyone benefits – the business, the economy, and the planet.

The opportunity ahead

We’re at a pivotal moment. The UK’s net zero transition won’t be delivered by a handful of trailblazers; it will be achieved through collaboration across thousands of interconnected businesses.

For CEOs, procurement teams, and suppliers alike, the message is clear: the path to net zero runs through your supply chain. The sooner we align our strategies, share data, and build trust-based partnerships, the faster we’ll move – and the more competitive we’ll become in a low-carbon economy.

At Notch, we’re proud to support organisations taking this journey -helping them map emissions, engage suppliers, and build transparent, measurable sustainability plans. Because when we green our supply chains, we don’t just reduce carbon; we unlock innovation, resilience, and long-term value.

James Napier is the Founder and CEO of Notch, helping businesses accelerate their journey to Net Zero through insight, innovation, and impact.