Green procurement
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Green procurement means the procurement of products and services that have less impact on the environment than their traditional counterparts. Greener procurement incorporates environmental considerations into decisions in addition to the conventional criteria of price and quality. In support of Sustainable Development the organization should develop and publish a 'Sustainable Development Procurement Guidelines and Procedures'. When it comes to purchasing products or services, referral to these guidelines would help make the organization become a leader in environmentally responsible purchasing.[1][2]
Considerations for Sustainable Development purchasing are policies and procedures that incorporate the 3Rs when determining purchases.
- Reduce: Do I really need it? Can I reduce the quantity required?
- Reuse: Can I find a surplus item? Can I upgrade an existing item?
- Recycle: Can the products be recycled? Does it contain recycled material?
Bear in mind that while recycling is good, reduction is best. The ultimate green procurement is the avoidance of the purchase altogether. However, we recommend: Buy efficient products; Reduce packaging waste; Consolidate service contracts; and Overcome cost barriers. [3][4]
