Sustainability remains a hot topic within the European Union (EU). In terms of media coverage it has arguably only been superseded by the ‘credit crunch’ and subsequent turmoil in the global financial markets. Legislation enacted in the political institutions within the EU is partly responsible for driving change among organisations within the community. It is often the case that only after the legislation becomes law that organisations think about planning to meet compliance. However purchasing and supply management professionals need to be aware of forthcoming, as well as current, legislation so that they can take advantage of the opportunities and mitigate against risks in the supply chain.