February 3, 2006
To: Functional Heads, Administration / Finance of all Departments and
Agencies
Subject: Policy on Green Procurement
Summary
Treasury Board Ministers approved the Policy on Green Procurement,
effective April 1, 2006, as presented by Public Works and Government Services
Canada, Environment Canada and Natural Resources Canada
The objective of the policy is to advance the protection of the environment
and support sustainable development by integrating environmental performance
considerations into the procurement decision-making process.
Background
The policy addresses the Government's commitment to implement a Green
Procurement policy by 2006 as outlined in the October 2004 Speech from the
Throne and Budget 2005. It also provides the Government of Canada the
opportunity to green operations by considering not only what and how it
purchases, but also how it uses, maintains and disposes of acquired goods and
services.
The policy will operate within the overall procurement policy framework of
the Government of Canada, which includes utilizing procurement to achieve other
social, economic and environmental outcomes.
Policy On Green Procurement
The Policy on Green Procurement is designed to advance the protection
of the environment and support sustainable development by integrating
environmental performance considerations into the procurement decision-making
process. The policy applies to all departments within the meaning of section 2
of the Financial Administration Act, unless specific acts or regulations
override it.
- Contribute to environmental objectives, such as:
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air contaminants;
- Improving energy and water efficiency;
- Reducing ozone depleting substances;
- Reducing waste and supporting reuse and recycling;
- Reducing hazardous waste; and
- Reducing toxic and hazardous chemicals and substances.
- Result in more environmentally responsible planning, acquisition, use and disposal practices
in the federal government.
- Stimulate innovation and market development of, and demand for, environmentally preferred
goods and services, making these available and mainstream for other sectors of society.
- Support emerging environmental technologies.
The policy requires that Deputy Heads incorporate environmental
considerations into the procurement process consistent with the overall
objectives of value for money in procurement while also complying with
associated legislative, regulatory and policy obligations. Deputy Heads
will also set green procurement targets for their organization as appropriate.
Reporting will occur through the annual Report on Plans and Priorities and
Departmental Performance Reports according to performance measures developed by
Public Works and Government Services Canada.
The policy is available on the Public Works and Government Services web at http://www.pwgsc.gc.ca/greening/text/proc/pol-e.html.
Enquiries
For further information please contact the
Office of Greening Government
Operations,
PWGSC: Director, Policy Development,
(819) 956-3950.
Environment Canada:
Director,
Environmental Affairs Division,
Administration & Environmental Management Directorate,
(819) 994-7785
Natural Resources Canada:
Senior Policy/Planning Officer,
(613) 996-0108
Original signed by
Blair M. James
Executive Director
Asset and Acquired Services Directorate
|