Summary:
SourcingHaus supported a leading global health organization in designing and implementing a high-impact initiative focused on decarbonizing its healthcare procurement and logistics functions. The project established a Scope 3 emissions inventory, covering purchased goods and upstream transportation, and delivered a practical strategy for emissions reduction, supplier engagement, and long-term reporting. The initiative also included training for internal teams, pilot studies in selected countries, and strategic analysis of alternative freight pathways - all aligned with broader climate goals and sustainability commitments.
The Challenge:
Procurement and supply chain operations in the health sector represent a significant share of indirect emissions, particularly in the production of goods and the global movement of critical medical supplies. Measuring and managing these emissions requires robust methodologies, accessible data, and scalable action plans. The organization sought to better understand its upstream carbon footprint and to define realistic steps to reduce its environmental impact while maintaining the efficiency and reliability of essential health supply chains.
What We Did:
SourcingHaus delivered a multi-faceted emissions reduction programme that included:
- Scope 3 Inventory Development - Built a standardized methodology for accounting emissions from purchased goods and services, plus upstream transportation, in alignment with international protocols and best practices.
- Data Integration & Analysis - Reviewed ERP and logistics systems, extracted emissions-related data from internal platforms and shipping documents, and applied automated tools to ensure consistency and traceability.
- Freight Optimization & Modal Shift Review - Developed business cases identifying opportunities to reduce transport emissions through a shift from air to sea freight, based on product type, delivery lead times, and country-specific contexts.
- Supplier Engagement Strategy - Developed an approach to work with strategic suppliers on emissions reporting, decarbonization commitments, and integration of low-carbon transport options.
- Sustainable Freight Options - Assessed the feasibility of emerging low-emission shipping solutions, including sustainable aviation and marine fuels, and recommended credible pathways for future alignment.
- Internal Training & Outreach - Designed and delivered workshops and technical guidance for internal teams across multiple country offices to build institutional awareness and operational capacity.
The Impact:
- Established Emissions Visibility - Delivered the organization’s first cross-functional Scope 3 emissions inventory for key procurement and logistics categories.
- Informed Strategic Decision-Making - Provided insights into cost-effective emission reduction opportunities through improved shipment planning and logistics efficiency.
- Advanced Supplier Collaboration - Enabled the organization to initiate informed dialogue with suppliers on emissions transparency and low-carbon sourcing.
- Enhanced Operational Readiness - Strengthened the ability of staff across departments and regions to contribute to climate action through procurement decisions.
- Aligned with Sustainability Goals - Contributed to institutional climate and sustainability objectives by integrating decarbonization into core procurement processes.
