Green Public Procurement (GPP) is a vital policy tool in Ireland’s transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy. As a member state of the European Union, Ireland is required to integrate environmental considerations into public purchasing processes. This article provides an overview of current GPP guidance, regulatory context, and practical steps for contracting authorities.
What is Green Public Procurement?
Green Public Procurement refers to the process by which public authorities seek to procure goods, services, or works with a reduced environmental impact throughout their life cycle. GPP contributes to Ireland’s obligations under the European Green Deal, Climate Action Plan 2024, and the Programme for Government.
Legal and Policy Framework in Ireland
While GPP is voluntary under EU procurement law, it is strongly encouraged both at EU and national levels. In Ireland, the key policy drivers include:
- Circular Economy and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2022
- Climate Action Plan 2024 (mentioned above)
- Public Procurement Guidelines – Competitive Process (2023), published by the Office of Government Procurement (OGP)
- GPP Criteria published by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC)
These documents outline how contracting authorities should integrate environmental considerations across the procurement lifecycle.
Sector-Specific GPP Criteria
The DECC’s GPP Criteria provide technical specifications, award criteria, and contract performance clauses tailored to high-impact sectors. Key sectors include:
- Construction
- Transport
- ICT
- Energy-related products
- Cleaning products and services
These criteria are based on EU GPP criteria and have been adapted to suit Irish market conditions and policy priorities.
Implementation in Practice
Contracting authorities should apply GPP as follows:
- Pre-Tender Stage: Include GPP objectives in the business case and procurement strategy.
- Technical Specifications: Define minimum environmental requirements (e.g. energy efficiency, low emissions).
- Award Criteria: Use MEAT (Most Economically Advantageous Tender) with weighting for environmental benefits.
- Contract Management: Monitor delivery of green commitments via KPIs and reporting obligations.
The OGP recommends proportionate application of GPP, particularly in relation to the scale and subject matter of the contract.
Supports and Training
The EPA and OGP offer regular training, case studies, and toolkits to support implementation. Notable resources include:
- GPP Training Toolkit by DECC
- EPA’s Green Procurement Guidance (2021)
- OGP’s GPP Strategy, Action Plan Template and criteria search tool
These resources are freely accessible and regularly updated to reflect best practices and evolving policy.
Conclusion
Green Public Procurement is an evolving priority in Ireland’s public sector reform and climate action agenda. By adopting GPP criteria, contracting authorities can drive market demand for sustainable goods and services, reduce environmental harm, and deliver better value for the public purse.
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