Environmental sustainability has become a critical focus in humanitarian supply chains. The goal: reduce ecological footprints while delivering essential aid, promoting efficiency, and reducing financial costs to reach more people in need.

A comprehensive approach is key. Environmental sustainability must be embedded throughout the entire life cycle of products and services. It must be recognized as a core pillar of principled humanitarian action, crucial for reducing harm and increasing impact.

Misconceptions still persist, for example, that environmental sustainability inevitably means extra costs or diverts funding from core humanitarian priorities. In reality, environmental sustainability has the power to:

1. Enhance operational efficiency
2. Generate cost savings
3. Contribute directly to life-saving outcomes

It also plays a vital role in advancing localisation and strengthening community resilience.

Key Areas for Action

Under the Humanitarian Leadership Group on Supply Chain (HLGSC), the Environmental Sustainability Workstream is co-chaired by UNHCR and CDCS/France, with support from the European Commission (DG ECHO) as Secretariat. Together, they have developed a practical roadmap to operationalise environmental sustainability in humanitarian supply chains and address barriers to progress.

Emissions measurement: Emissions measurement, including Scope 3 emissions, must become standard practice a cross all humanitarian organisations.
Collective acion: Shared strategies on waste management, freight, and warehousing can cut emissions, boost efficiency, and save costs.
Private sector partnerships: Engaging suppliers, including local ones, can unlock more sustainable products and services.

Turning commitments into real change requires strong leadership at every level. Environmental sustainability must be a shared organisational responsibility—embedded in policies, budgets, and culture—not left to technical teams alone.

Environmental sustainability Workshop

Key Areas for Action