Dr Robert Wren explores why sustainable procurement is key to successful construction, net zero goals and long-term project viability.

Green/Sustainable Procurement has an important role in zero carbon management and is a strategy for resilience and growth - (Dr Robert Wren)

Environmental and construction sustainability may not always be at the forefront of our day-to-day thinking, but it is rapidly gaining traction as a fundamental part of government policy and, by association, the construction process. Examples include the introduction of the Future Homes Standard and the need to deliver sustainable construction solutions in water-stressed areas. Whether we have a complete grasp of sustainability principles or not, our respective roles in construction mean that each of us has a direct impact on the environment. Conversely, the environment also has a significant impact on construction, particularly in how we respond to a changing climate. Each of us is therefore in a position to influence construction solutions and procurement outcomes that are more sustainable without compromising project viability.

This is not another learning opportunity with 'greenwashing' undertones. Instead, it aims to highlight the fundamental importance of green and sustainable procurement. In many respects, sustainable procurement sits at the heart of sustainable construction, influencing the decisions we make, or contribute to, as construction professionals. Nor is it a concept devoted solely to carbon counting. Energy use, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and progress towards net zero are all rooted in informed and effective procurement practices.

Sustainable procurement is a critical component of the construction process and carries considerable importance. We ignore it at our peril.

Dr Robert Wren, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply and a Chartered Procurement and Supply Professional, will deliver this CPD event. He is also a constituent member of the CIOB Chartered Environmentalist Review Panel. Drawing on many years of industry experience and doctoral research focused on sustainable procurement, both in the UK and internationally, Dr Wren will provide delegates with practical insight and informed guidance on this increasingly important topic.

Currently undertaking a second research doctorate and researching a book dedicated to Green/Sustainable Procurement, Dr Wren will offer CIOB members a unique learning opportunity to better understand the role of procurement in achieving sustainable construction outcomes.

This is not a session on greenwashing. It is an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the role sustainable procurement plays in successful project delivery and how construction professionals can influence positive environmental outcomes through informed decision-making.

This is a learning event not to be missed

Agenda

6:00pm – Registration and Refreshments

6:30pm – Presentation by Robert Wren

7:15pm – Q&A Session

7:30pm – Networking

8:00pm – Close

Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking CPD event that will provide valuable guidance for anyone involved in the procurement, design, management, or delivery of construction projects

Who Should Attend

This CPD event is suitable for anyone involved in the planning, procurement, delivery, and management of construction projects, including:

Project Managers

Construction Managers

Quantity Surveyors

Commercial Managers

Procurement Professionals

Site Managers

Design Managers

Engineers

Sustainability and Environmental Professionals

Consultants and Client Representatives

CIOB Members and those working towards professional membership

Whether you are responsible for procurement decisions, project delivery, sustainability objectives, or advising clients, this session will provide valuable insights into how sustainable procurement can influence project outcomes, support net zero ambitions, and enhance long-term value across the built environment.

CPD Benefits

By attending this session, delegates will:

Gain a clear understanding of the role sustainable procurement plays in delivering successful construction projects.

Explore how procurement decisions influence environmental performance, resource efficiency, and long-term project outcomes.

Understand the link between sustainable procurement, net zero targets, and current government policy.

Learn how sustainable procurement can support project viability while reducing environmental impact.

Develop greater awareness of key sustainability challenges facing the construction industry, including climate change and resource management.

Gain practical insights and real-world examples drawn from UK and international experience.

Enhance their ability to make informed decisions that support sustainable construction outcomes.

Contribute towards their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements and professional competence.

This learning activity can contribute to your annual CPD return and

Description supplied by the event organiser.