GPP of office supplies

By using their purchasing power to choose goods, services and works with a reduced environmental impact, governments can make an important contribution towards sustainability goals. The European Commission defines Green Public Procurement (GPP) as "a process whereby public authorities seek to procure goods, services and works with a reduced environmental impact throughout their life cycle when compared to goods, services and works with the same primary function that would otherwise be procured." This good practice shows how a public body can stimulate the supply and use of eco-friendly office products in public institutions (e.g. municipalities, schools, museums). Worth noting is the development of a “green list” of common office supplies included in an inventory that lists all the requirements related to a product. The internal consultation process with regards to the technical requirements of the framework contract is also an essential element of the practice. The experience contributed to raising the awareness of the public administration and private sector of how the supply and use of sustainable office products helps to meet environmental objectives. The overall approach can serve as an inspiration for other public authorities interested to green public procurement process.