Green Purchasing

Background

Our Objectives

We will protect and improve the environment by giving preference to green products and services. We will consider the following factors in acquisition planning for all procurements and in the evaluation and award of contracts: "elimination of virgin material requirements; use of biobased products; use of recovered materials; reuse of product; life cycle cost; recyclability; use of environmentally preferable products; waste prevention (including toxicity reduction or elimination); and ultimate disposal."

Our Goals

To enhance and sustain its operations by increasing USDA HQ's purchases of green products and services to their maximum extent possible
Provide a preference for recycled content, ENERGY STAR®, FEMP-designated energy efficient, low standby power, biobased, Environmental Preferable Products (EPP), Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT), water efficient, non-ozone depleting products and alternative fuels and alternative fuel vehicles.
Educate USDA employees to make conscious decisions when purchasing products and services

Programs

Green Cleaning at USDA HQ's

The Performance Work Statement for the Custodial Services and Waste Removal contract at the Headquarters Complex now focuses on the use of green cleaning products and processes. Green cleaning affects all aspects of cleaning to include stewardship; communication; the selection of cleaning chemicals, janitorial equipment, paper, and supplies; procedures and methods in which the cleaning is accomplished; pollution prevention strategies; and other opportunities that when used reduce the impact on the environment. The janitorial contract requires green cleaning products and processes that include, but are not limited to, products containing recycled content, environmentally preferable products and services, biobased products, and products and services that minimize the use of energy, water, and other resources.

Greening our Operations

The Performance Work Statement for Operations and Maintenance Services at the Headquarters Complex now contains green purchasing language. Section C emphasizes the procurement of recycled content and environmentally preferable products.

USDA commits to:

Using lubricating oils containing re-refined oils, including engine lubricating oils and hydraulic fluids;
Using biobased (e.g. vegetable oils) in lieu of non renewable resources of petroleum based products if feasible;
Encourage the use of products made of recycled paper (30% post-consumer materials);
Encourage the procurement of goods made with recovered materials; and
Reduce energy and water consumption at facilities through the use of energy and water saving devices.

Food Service

The Performance Work Statement of Food Services at the Headquarters Complex now contains green purchasing language. Section C emphasizes the procurement of recycled content and environmentally preferable products.

USDA commits to:

Using biobased cafeteria-ware where feasible in lieu of petroleum based products
Using unbleached paper products with 30% recycled content
Purchasing locally grown produce
Utilizing biobased cleaning products

References

USDA HQ's Info

Other USDA Information