CSR, the must-have by 2026

The Climate and Resilience Act, which will fully come into force in 2026, marks a significant turning point in public tenders. It requires public buyers to systematically integrate environmental and social award criteria into the evaluation of bids and the conditions of contract performance. This new regulation reflects a strong political will to promote virtuous public procurement, encouraging companies to adopt more responsible practices.

CSR considerations that matter more and more

The results of our 2024 public procurement survey reveal that taking CSR and sustainability issues into account is already a reality in the tender response process, although its importance varies with company size.

Large and medium-sized companies, often with dedicated teams, show better integration of these issues. For very small and small businesses, however, CSR sometimes remains secondary, unless their activity is directly linked to these topics. This difference in approach by company size highlights the challenge of generalizing CSR practices, particularly for smaller organizations.

Sectors also influence sensitivity to CSR issues. Construction companies, subject to strict requirements regarding working conditions, social inclusion and recycling, naturally place great importance on these criteria. Likewise, companies supplying services or goods are increasingly concerned by these issues, a sign of broader sector-wide awareness.

Looking ahead to 2026

With the imminent application of the Climate and Resilience Act, companies that have not yet engaged in a solid CSR approach risk being disadvantaged in tenders. It therefore becomes crucial to start or strengthen this commitment without delay. Setting up a robust CSR approach takes time and sustained effort, but it can become a decisive competitive advantage, allowing companies to stand out and respond more effectively to public buyers’ new expectations.

The shift toward public procurement that systematically integrates ESG criteria is both a challenge and an opportunity. For companies, the time to act is now: take the lead, innovate and submit tender responses that reflect a genuine commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. In this context, CSR becomes not only an ethical imperative but also an essential strategic lever for accessing the public procurement of tomorrow.

Our advice

Setting up a solid CSR approach takes several months, and even longer to see measurable effects. It is therefore essential for companies to start or strengthen their CSR commitment now, so as not to be ruled out of tenders. Take the lead and be proactive in your tender responses: the environmental factor can play a differentiating role.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the growing integration of corporate social responsibility (CSR) criteria into public tenders signals a paradigm shift toward more ethical and sustainable public procurement. With the Climate and Resilience Act coming into force in 2026, this movement will accelerate, making CSR not only desirable but essential for any company aspiring to work with the public sector.

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