Key Impact Points:
- The Coalition aims to transform procurement into a driver of sustainability, equity, and competitiveness across global supply chains.
- A new framework, tools, and a “State of Sustainable Procurement” analysis will be developed in the Coalition’s first year.
- A high-level event on 25 September 2025 will convene CPOs, CSOs, and ministers to align procurement with the SDGs.
UN Launches Global Procurement Coalition to Advance SDGs
The UN Global Compact has launched the Coalition for Sustainable Procurement, a landmark initiative designed to elevate procurement as a strategic lever for advancing sustainability, competitiveness, and business value. Anchored in the UN Global Compact’s Sustainable Supply Chains & SMEs Programme, the Coalition aims to drive transformation across industries by embedding sustainability deep into procurement functions.
Closing the Gap Between Procurement and Sustainability
Procurement, despite being a powerful corporate function, is often siloed from sustainability strategies. This Coalition seeks to change that — by uniting Chief Procurement Officers (CPOs), Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs), and public sector leaders to reshape procurement practices in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“The Coalition for Sustainable Procurement is not just about changing supply chains — it’s about changing systems,” said Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact. “By putting sustainability at the heart of sourcing decisions, we can drive transformation across entire industries and geographies.”
Flagship Dialogue Set for September
The Coalition’s founding members will be announced during a high-level dialogue on 25 September 2025 at New York’s Chrysler Building. This public-private roundtable will launch a series of global engagements focused on scaling innovation, fostering collaboration, and identifying actionable strategies for sustainable procurement.
Tools, Frameworks, and SME Support
In its first year, the Coalition will:
- Publish a State of Sustainable Procurement report
- Build a practical framework for implementation
- Develop guidance and tools to support businesses
- Engage ecosystem partners — including UN agencies, civil society, and policymakers
Inclusive participation is a cornerstone of the initiative. The Coalition will work directly with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to ensure they are equipped to compete and contribute in a sustainable economy.
“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,” Ojiambo added.
How to Get Involved
Organizations interested in supporting or joining the Coalition can contact the UN Global Compact Sustainable Supply Chains & SMEs Team at
📧 supplychainsandsmes@unglobalcompact.org
Related Article: Call to action for Young Professionals: UN Global Compact Youth Leaders
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