What is Green Public Procurement?
Green Public Procurement (GPP) is a strategic approach to procurement where public authorities seek to procure goods, services and works with reduced environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. The primary goal of GPP is to stimulate a critical demand for more sustainable goods and services, which in turn drives wider changes in the market and contributes to sustainable consumption and production.
How does it work?
The implementation of Green Public Procurement involves the integration of environmental considerations into all stages of the procurement process. This begins with need assessment, where the procuring authority identifies the goods or services needed. Next is the specification stage, where the authority defines the technical and functional requirements of the product or service. In the selection phase, the authority evaluates offers based on environmental criteria, alongside price and other conventional factors. In the contract performance phase, the authority ensures that the supplier meets the environmental specifications of the contract.
GPP can be applied in any public procurement process, from the procurement of office supplies to the commissioning of public works. It requires a shift in procurement practices, with a focus on lifecycle costs and environmental impacts, rather than just the upfront price.
Real-World Impact
A notable example of Green Public Procurement in action is the case of the City of Copenhagen. The city has implemented GPP in its procurement of food for public institutions like schools and nursing homes. It prioritizes organic food and seeks to reduce meat consumption, both of which have significant environmental benefits. As a result of this policy, more than 90% of the food served in Copenhagen’s public institutions is now organic, contributing to a reduction in the environmental impact of the city’s food system.
How to Get Started
To get started with Green Public Procurement, public authorities need to develop a clear procurement policy that integrates environmental considerations. This policy should be communicated to all relevant staff and incorporated into procurement procedures. Training may be required to equip staff with the skills to evaluate products and services based on environmental criteria.
Authorities should also engage with suppliers to communicate their new procurement criteria and encourage them to offer more sustainable products and services. Over time, this can stimulate a shift in the market towards more sustainable production and consumption patterns.
Get the Empress Edge
Understanding and implementing Green Public Procurement can bring a range of benefits. It can lead to cost savings over the lifecycle of procured goods and services, due to lower energy and water usage, reduced waste, and fewer health impacts. It can also contribute to environmental goals, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving natural resources.
As society becomes more aware of the environmental impacts of consumption, GPP is becoming increasingly relevant. It provides a powerful tool for public authorities to stimulate demand for sustainable products and services, driving market change and contributing to a more sustainable economy.