Addressing Barriers to Climate Action - Developing a values driven approach to accelerate climate action within the Protected Landscapes
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The real goal isn't just training
When I look at this tender, I see a deeper purpose than just creating training materials.
South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) wants to empower their stakeholders.
To drive meaningful climate action.
The contract is about providing resources, yes.
But it's really about changing mindsets and behaviours.
You'll deliver practical training materials to help Protected Landscapes engage more effectively.
The end game?
Support these landscapes in adapting and building resilience to climate change's impacts.
Think about who you're engaging
This isn't just a generic project.
You're working with the UK's Protected Landscapes family.
That means national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty.
Each with its unique challenges and stakeholders.
They're looking for ways to communicate the importance and value of nature-based solutions.
Your response should reflect an understanding of these diverse landscapes and how to engage with their specific stakeholders effectively.
Pay attention to what they say
The notice is clear on one thing: communication is key.
SDNPA wants advice on "how best to communicate with key sector partners".
This means your approach shouldn't just be about developing resources.
It should focus on how these resources facilitate meaningful conversations.
How do you make climate action resonate with different audiences?
Quality communication strategies will be crucial.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that almost every bidder had big ideas.
But not many could back them up with evidence.
Here, you'd want to show examples of past projects where you've successfully engaged stakeholders.
- Case studies of communication strategies that led to action
- Examples of materials that changed perceptions
- Testimonials from previous clients or partners
Use evidence to build trust.
Don't underestimate the value of nature-based solutions
Nature-based solutions aren't just buzzwords.
They're at the heart of this tender.
SDNPA is looking for ways to emphasise their importance and value.
Your response should highlight how you can make these solutions relevant to the stakeholders you're engaging.
It's about making climate action tangible and relatable.
Remember who you're trying to convince
If I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for responses that show empathy.
Understanding the concerns and motivations of the stakeholders involved.
How will your training materials speak to their values?
How will you ensure they see the personal and collective benefits of climate action?
Holding standards over time
Consistency is key.
Your approach needs to be sustainable over the contract's duration from October 2026 to March 2027.
Think about how you'll maintain engagement and effectiveness.
How will you adapt materials and strategies as you learn more about what works?
I'd want to see a plan for ongoing evaluation and improvement.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
At the end of the day, this is about people.
Real people living and working in protected landscapes.
Your job is to inspire them to take action.
To see themselves as part of the solution.
I'd ask myself, "How will this make their lives better?"
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus too much on technical details without human impact
- Ignore the unique characteristics of different landscapes
- Promise big results without showing how they'll be achieved
- Underestimate the importance of communication strategies
- Fail to provide evidence of past success
- Overlook the role of nature-based solutions
- Lack a clear plan for maintaining standards over time
- Assume one-size-fits-all solutions will work
My Final Thoughts
SDNPA is looking for more than just a consultant.
They want a partner in accelerating climate action.
With a contract value of £48,000, the emphasis is likely on quality over quantity.
Your written submission should reflect this.
Focus on how your approach will deliver real, measurable change.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.