Abstract |
The Federal government is one of the largest purchasers in the world. In fiscal year 2002, Federal agencies spent more than $250 billion for goods and services to support the activities of approximately 1.7 million employees in 60 agencies. In addition, Federal agencies spent another $15 billion on small purchases via purchase cards. Purchasing decisions can significantly influence the environmental performance of Federal facilities. By including environmental considerations in Federal purchasing decisions, government procurement and contracting processes can be used to purchase products and services that reduce an organization's environmental impacts. The goal of this report is to help Federal facilities integrate green purchasing into their EMS. The intended audience includes those tasked with implementing an EMS, reducing environmental impacts, meeting green purchasing requirements and/or buying products and services in a Federal facility. |