Sustainable catering products (Ireland)
About this good practice
In February 2017, the procurement of Catering Consumable and Disposable Products by several public sector bodies began. During the research phase, it became clear that the product specifications should focus on altering the current state of non-recyclable, non-biodegradable and non-compostable product nature.
Based on new green targets, such as the French decision to ban the sale of many plastics from 2020, the EU push on Green Procurement with the document “Buying Green, A handbook on green public procurement”, our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals launched in 2015, new advances in green manufacturing technologies and building media attention focusing on environmental issues, the Facilities Management Portfolio of the OGP formulated an RFT (request for tender) Strategy that encouraged tenderers to submit an alternative compostable product for each and every item on the tender pricing schedule.
Resources needed
Legal expertise during the application phase and regarding the integration of environmental criteria into the tender procedures, competent public procurement officers, the private sector’s environmental culture and availability of relevant suppliers.
Evidence of success
Manufacturing compostable products generally require 50% less energy (corn-based bio-plastics), 40% less water (bio based plastics) and emit up to 73% less CO² (compared to the production of Styrofoam), The public sector bodies that used the contract now have direct access to compostable products where previously this was unstructured. Therefore, the cost price of the compostable products is now significantly lower. Ultimately, the award works as an incentive for the industry to innovate.
Potential for learning or transfer
This example shows that engaging with suppliers early in the research phase of the project gives valuable insight into market trends and product development that may not be publicly known otherwise.
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Office of Government Procurement