PUBLIC PROCUREMENT NEWS

  

News

6 June 2013

UNEP supports sustainable procurement with international initiative and global clearinghouse

Governments are increasingly turning to Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP) as a means to achieve environmental, social, and economic goals. However, the level of knowledge needed to effectively enact SPP, and a full understanding of what SPP entails, is often lacking, both in developed and developing countries. To address this, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has set up the International Sustainable Public Procurement Initiative (SPPI).

The SPPI aims to overcome barriers that inhibit the use of SPP, such as negative perceptions with regard to complexity and cost, a lack of legal or environmental knowledge within organisations, or inflexible budgetary constraints. SPPI will build the case for SPP as a tool to promote greener economies and sustainable development, support the implementation of SPP through facilitating collaboration, and undertake advocacy and awareness raising activities at all levels.

UNEP have also developed a Clearinghouse dedicated to advancing Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) worldwide. The Global SCP Clearinghouse allows users to share and find information on SCP around the world, including initiatives, news, events and publications. Users will also have the ability to build networks and identify partners through the interactive marketplace for SCP cooperation, and strengthen capacities by connecting with experts.

For more information, click here.