The Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN) has published a new guide aimed to showcase how and why ecolabels can contribute to sustainable (public) procurement. Ecolabels are voluntary environmental certifications that can help procurement professionals identify products and services with reduced environmental impact.

The guide explains that by choosing products and services with an ecolabel, procurers can contribute to sustainability goals, reduce their environmental impact, and save costs – ecolabelled products are often more energy efficient and durable, helping save resources. Moreover by using ecolabels procurers can build credibility and trust, enhancing the reputation of their organisation. Finally, purchasing ecolabelled products also drives the broader market to adopt more environmentally friendly practices.

The case studies in the guide show how public procurers from around the world have incorporated ecolabels in their purchases and how this helps avoid greenwashing. As noted by Mara Inzaina, Sustainable, Innovation and Circular Procurement Expert at ICLEI Europe: “ICLEI’s experience with local governments shows that ecolabels hold an important role driving sustainability in public procurement. They can help purchasers identify sustainable products or services. Labels can also play an important role in developing technical specifications and award criteria, and in verifying compliance.”

The full guide can be downloaded at GEN’s website. GEN aims to be the leading network of the world’s most credible and robust ecolabels, setting the global benchmark for ecolabel excellence.