In 2025, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria play a significant role in tender evaluations. Within UK central government contracts, social value—which encompasses environmental performance—must account for at least 10% of the overall score. In reality, some contracting authorities are already assigning a greater weighting to ESG, setting tougher expectations for bidders.

More broadly, ESG is becoming a core focus across procurement. Research from the 2024 CIPS survey found that 78% of procurement professionals view ESG as an important factor within their organisations.

 

Why this matters for leaders

Revenue impact: Across the UK and Ireland, ESG criteria typically account for around 10% of the evaluation score in mid-to-large public sector tenders. In a tight competition, that proportion can determine which supplier wins the contract.

Risk mitigation: Poorly developed ESG answers may prevent a business from even reaching the shortlist, regardless of how competitive its pricing is.

Market positioning: Demonstrating strong ESG credentials reinforces your reputation as a reliable, low-risk partner, helping to secure contract renewals more smoothly.

 

The Environmental questions appearing most in 2025 tenders

• Can you evidence carbon reduction in the last 12 months?

Procurement teams increasingly expect up-to-date proof. Annual certification with Planet Mark provides independent verification of your emissions data.

• How are you addressing supply chain emissions?

On average, supply-chain (Scope 3) emissions are 26 times greater than operational emissions. Buyers are therefore looking for credible strategies to influence upstream partners and demonstrate measurable reductions.

• What sustainability improvements will be delivered during the contract term?

Clear commitments to ongoing progress are rewarded in tenders. Frameworks such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which applies from 2025, are heightening expectations for continuous improvement and transparency.

 

Planet Mark Members leading the way

Charles Tyrwhitt — Achieved 18.1% absolute carbon reduction (Scope 1 & 2) and increased renewable energy use to 51%. The Planet Mark Certification badge features on packaging and marketing, boosting trust and tender success rate.

Hillier Nurseries — Cut emissions by 11.6% and saved £35k in water costs in one year by targeting cost-linked carbon hotspots.

 

Tender-ready checklist

• Verified ESG data that’s under 12 months old.
• Time-bound reduction targets tied to recognised frameworks.
• A concrete plan to engage suppliers on Scope 3.
• Evidence of continuous improvement during contracts.
   

The takeaway

ESG within tenders isn’t just an administrative task—it’s a driver of business growth. Providing clear, evidence-based responses with carbon reduction targets and added social value supports buyers in meeting their own sustainability goals, while strengthening your ability to secure and renew contracts.

Want to stress-test your ESG comms? Read Planet Mark’s Blog: How to avoid greenhushing and win business.

Ready to put this into practice? Speak to Planet Mark’s team today about getting tender-ready with independent certification.