By Julie A. Baylor, CHA

 

Environmental Purchasing means “choosing products and services that most effectively minimize negative environmental impacts over their lifecycle.” Seems like a simple concept, but like any discipline, executing environmental purchasing procedures is an ongoing process that takes time and practice. 

 

And, also just like any discipline, sometimes getting started can be the hardest part. 

 

Here are five key steps to initiating an Environmental Purchasing Program.

 

It takes a strong leader to set the example for everyone to follow. If you are not personally convinced that environmental purchasing is important, your staff will likely feel the same way. Take the time to understand the facts and get convinced. If you don’t take a stand, neither will your staff and the program will not succeed. Need info? Check out the Responsible Purchasing Network for resources. 

 

Evaluation methods must be clear. It is too confusing to ask people to “be greener” in their purchasing decisions – you must provide criteria to judge by. Make certain that your Environmental Purchasing Policy explains how employees will go about making a decision in favor of sustainability. Examples include specifying minimum percentages of recycled content, energy efficiency standards such as Energy Star, or HMIS ratings. 

 

It will be much easier to comply with Environmental Purchasing procedures when you are aligned with vendors who are also committed to sustainability. In advance, select vendors based upon their desire to partner with you in your environmental goals. Ask each vendor if they have an environmental policy and a green product line. Make those who answer affirmatively your preferred vendors.

 

Make it clear to your vendors that you expect high quality products AND reduced environmental impact. Increased demand for green products and services has resulted in an increase in competitive pricing and performance, so keep your standards high. Prove to yourself and your stakeholders that greener is better.

 

Continue to educate yourself and your staff on the benefits and advantages of greener products. The more you know the easier it gets. Be open to learning about new technologies, and be willing to test new products. 

 

As you develop your green purchasing strategies, it will become more and more natural for your team to identify and select the most appropriate products for your operation in meeting its performance goals for people, planet and profit.

 

Julie A. Baylor, CHA