Why does a Carbon Reduction Plan need a signature?

13th June 2025
Insights

As more public sector documents—like Carbon Reduction Plans (CRPs)—are published online, it’s important to understand how to handle signatures safely and appropriately.

Whilst we here at Tender Response work for our clients, we are never responsible for their documents. We do like to make sure that they’re safe online tho!

Many companies produce statements and policies that are present on their website, and some even sign them. Whilst some people choose to do this, we recommend that you don’t.

✍️ Typed Signatures Are Acceptable

For documents such as CRPs submitted as part of a public sector tender, a typed signature (e.g. “John Smith, Managing Director”) is generally acceptable. This satisfies the requirement for a declaration of commitment without exposing sensitive personal information.

🔐 Never Post a Handwritten Signature Online

Uploading a scanned or digital image of your handwritten signature to a public website or procurement portal can expose you to personal cyber risk. These images can be copied and misused for identity theft, fraud, or unauthorised document signing.

✅ Best Practice for Public Documents

  • Use a typed name and title in place of a signature
  • Include the date and role of the signatory
  • Keep signed originals securely stored offline or in a secure cloud environment

Be safe online.

If in doubt, ask your Legal for support.

Latest Insights From Tender Response

8th December 2025 3 good things to know about Public Procurement act 2023 and what it means for suppliers to public sector suppliers.

The United Kingdom public sector procurement system undergoes rapid transformation at present. The process of public sector procurement in the UK has shifted beyond delivering the most suitable technical solution. The procurement process has undergone changes which affect how contracts are designed and supplier selection occurs and what criteria must be fulfilled. The following three […]

Bid Writing & Tender Management
24th November 2025 3 Times When You Shouldn’t Ask a Clarification Question

Public sector tenders often come with detailed specifications — but not always. Sometimes, content may feel vague or open to interpretation, prompting suppliers to consider submitting a clarification question. But here’s the thing: not all ambiguity is bad. In fact, there are moments when not asking a question can give you a strategic edge — […]

Bid Writing & Tender Management
10th November 2025 Top 3 Tender Submission Mistakes SMEs Must Avoid in Public Sector Bids

SMEs need to focus equally on both the quality of their proposals and the precision of their public sector bids. The public sector evaluation process frequently eliminates suppliers through preventable minor errors instead of their technical proposal content. The following section presents three typical mistakes which frequently occur in tender submissions together with methods to […]

Bid Writing & Tender Management