The Public Buyers Community Platform is growing! On 25th March 2025, the European Commission and the Foundation for Climate Friendly Procurement and Business (SKAO) launched the CO₂ Performance Ladder Europe Community of Practice (CoP), an exciting new initiative aimed at helping public procurement authorities across Europe take meaningful action on sustainability.  

Hosted on the Public Buyers Community Platform, the CoP offers a collaborative space for public buyers to exchange knowledge and integrate CO₂-reduction strategies into their procurement processes. The CoP was unveiled during the annual Big Buyers Working Together event in Helsinki.

Elisabeth van Loon-Muller, Senior Project Officer at CO₂ Performance Ladder Europe, mentioned: "The CO₂ Performance Ladder is a simple yet effective public procurement tool designed to drive decarbonisation. We challenge organisations and suppliers to reduce carbon emissions—the more they reduce emissions, the greater the award advantage. It's a win-win situation: procurers make an impact, and for companies, it’s a strong green business case."

The CO₂ Performance Ladder is already gaining traction beyond its origins in the Netherlands and Belgium, with countries like France, Germany, Ireland, Portugal, and the UK increasingly adopting it in public tenders. This new CoP will help public buyers across Europe connect, share insights, and access the resources they need to implement this proven tool for Green Public Procurement. 

What does the CoP offer? 

The CoP provides a unique opportunity for public buyers to learn from one another’s experiences and get practical advice on using the CO₂ Performance Ladder. Members will have access to case studies, tools, and expert support, all tailored to their country’s needs. Whether they are just starting or already using the Ladder, participants will find valuable guidance and resources to enhance their sustainable procurement efforts. By joining the CoP, members can contribute to the EU’s broader climate goals and play a key role in reducing emissions through smarter, greener procurement. 

Who can join and how? 

The CoP is open to public procurement authorities from Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Portugal, the Netherlands, and the UK. By joining the CoP, members will gain access to valuable resources to help them deploy the CO₂ Performance Ladder and contribute to the EU’s climate goals. 

Join the CO₂ Performance Ladder Europe Community of Practice!