Through Responsible Procurement, we support members to meet their legal duties and strategic ambitions while reducing risk and maximising positive impact from procurement activity.

We provide members with:

• Specialist Responsible Procurement expertise embedded into collaborative frameworks and sector contracts
• Practical tools and guidance to support local procurement activity, including prioritisation tools, sustainability tests and buyer guidance
• Access to sector-developed approaches such as the Supply Chain Climate and Ecological Emergency Strategy (SCCEES) and FNT2030 Climate Action Plans
• Support on climate reporting, including spend-based Scope 3 emissions analysis
• Due diligence and supply chain transparency through tools such as supply chain management questionnaires and third‑party sustainability assessments

APUC also facilitates sector collaboration through networks, working groups and forums focused on sustainability, climate action and responsible procurement.

These enable members to share good practice, influence markets collectively and align approaches across the Scottish higher and further education sector.