This strategy and action plan will play a role in implementing green and circular procurement practices across the public sector.
Green Public Procurement (GPP) is commonly acknowledged as a crucial tool for advancing environmental goals. Large purchasing power gives the public sector significant influence to stimulate the creation and provision of more resource-efficient, less polluting goods, services and works within the marketplace.
The GBP Strategy and Action Plan replaces the decade old, national Green Public Procurement policy 'Green Tenders'. During this period, green public procurement commitments have been integrated into significant sectors of government policy, notably within Ireland's inaugural Whole-of-Government Circular Economy Strategy, the Climate Action Plan, and the Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy. The Programme for Government – 'Our Shared Future' – includes commitments relating to green public procurement.
-- Advertisement --
In order to support Ireland's environmental and wider sustainable development objectives, the public sector is responsible for promoting green public procurement. Citizens need to be sure that what is purchased on their behalf has minimal harmful effects on the environment and society. At the same time, these goods, services and works must represent both short-term and long-term value for money.
The strategy has been prepared in relation to changes in climate, energy, sustainability, and procurement policies over the last number of years. The new Green Public Procurement Strategy and Action Plan will significantly increase Green Public Procurement implementation across the public sector.
Minister of State with special responsibility for Public Procurement, eGovernment, Communications and the Circular Economy Ossian Smyth said: "This Government is committed to making the Circular Economy a reality which means moving to a more sustainable model of production and consumption. Green Public Procurement will play a key role in helping Ireland become more resource efficient. It will ensure that public bodies play a critical part in supporting the delivery of important commitments on climate action and helping our transition to a circular economy."
Key areas of focus in the Green Public Procurement Strategy and Action Plan include measures to progress Green Public Procurement implementation in the Public Sector, Monitoring and Reporting, Training and Awareness and further development of national Green Public Procurement guidance and criteria. In addition, the strategy sets out how to undertake market engagement, avail of research and innovation, and EU and international initiatives on Green Public Procurement. The strategy also has a key sectoral focus with related Green Public Procurement targets included.
