Green procurement: choices that make a difference
How to factor in environmental considerations when buying materials and equipment
When something is to be purchased—materials, equipment, supplies—a whole range of environmental choices are made at the same time. How long is the product's lifespan? Can it be repaired? Where does it come from? Purchasing is therefore one of the places where you have the greatest influence on the workplace's overall footprint.
§Need before purchase
The most sustainable purchase is often the one you don't need to make at all. Before ordering anything new it's worth asking: Do we already have something we can use? Can what we have be repaired? Is there something that can be shared instead of bought for each?
§What makes a purchase greener?
- 01Durability: does the product last long and can it be repaired?
- 02Materials: can it be recycled and does it contain hazardous substances?
- 03Amount and packaging: are we buying the right amount with minimal waste?
- 04Transport: does it come from far away or is closer alternative available?
- 05Energy consumption: how much energy does the equipment use over its lifetime?
§Markings and documentation
Credible environmental labels can help distinguish real environmental choices from loose claims. Good label is built on requirements checked by independent party. Be skeptical of vague formulations like "environmentally friendly" without documentation — could be greenwashing
§Total economy rather than lowest price
The cheapest product is not always the cheapest in the long run. A slightly more expensive device that lasts twice as long uses less energy or can be repaired can be both cheaper and greener over its entire lifespan. This way of thinking is called total economy: you calculate the total costs not just the purchase price.
Green purchasing does not require you to be an expert. It requires that you ask a couple of good questions before you order and that you dare to choose durability and documentation over just the lowest price on the shelf.