The Federal Environmentally Sustainable Procurement (ESP) Policy and Reporting Framework outlined by the Australian Government Department of the Environment, Energy, and Water (DEEW) is a comprehensive strategy designed to integrate sustainability principles into the procurement practices of government agencies. Here are the key points of the policy:
Here are the key points of the ESP policy:
1. Objectives: The policy aims to promote environmental sustainability by ensuring that government procurement processes consider the environmental impacts of goods and services. It seeks to minimise resource consumption, waste generation, and environmental pollution while maximising the use of sustainable and ethically sourced products.
2. Scope and Applicability: The policy applies to all government agencies and departments under the jurisdiction of the Australian government. It covers a wide range of procurement activities, including purchasing goods, services, and construction projects. As of the 1 July 2024, construction services valued over $7.5 million (including GST) will be contractually required to commit to and deliver sustainability outcomes.
3. Guiding Principles: The policy is guided by several core principles, including compliance with relevant environmental legislation and standards, consideration of whole-of-life costs and environmental impacts, promotion of innovation and best practices, and collaboration with suppliers to improve sustainability outcomes. One of the main pathways to demonstrate compliance is to certify the building with Green Star.
4. Key Requirements: The policy outlines specific requirements that government agencies must adhere to when procuring goods and services. These include conducting environmental risk assessments, incorporating environmental criteria into procurement decisions, and actively seeking products and suppliers with strong environmental credentials.
5. Supplier Engagement and Collaboration: The policy emphasises the importance of engaging with suppliers to promote environmental sustainability throughout the supply chain. Government agencies are encouraged to work closely with suppliers to identify opportunities for improvement, share best practices, and support the development of sustainable products and services.
6. Monitoring and Reporting: The policy establishes a robust reporting framework to track the implementation and effectiveness of environmentally sustainable procurement practices. Government agencies are required to regularly report on their procurement activities, including the adoption of environmental criteria, the use of sustainable products, and progress towards sustainability goals.
7. Capacity Building and Training: To support the implementation of the policy, the DEEW provides training and resources to government agencies to enhance their capacity to integrate sustainability considerations into procurement processes. This includes guidance on conducting environmental assessments, identifying sustainable products, and engaging with suppliers.
Overall, the Environmentally Sustainable Procurement Policy and Reporting Framework represents a significant commitment by the Australian government to promote sustainability in procurement practices and drive positive environmental outcomes across government operations. By incorporating environmental criteria into procurement decisions and fostering collaboration with suppliers, the policy aims to lead by example and inspire broader adoption of sustainable practices within the public and private sectors. In particular, Green Star certification is recognised as a pathway to meeting most of the requirements of the Policy, giving major building projects another good reason to register with the Green Building Council of Australia.
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For more information https://www.dcceew.gov.au/environment/protection/waste/sustainable-procurement/environmentally-sustainable-procurement-policy