Green Purchasing Tools from Washington State
Tina S imcich, Waste 2 Resource ProgramDepartment of Ecology
Buy Green, Save Green
Reuse and Surplus Programs
Eliminates purchase costs and shipping fees
Reduces procurement staff cost.
Reduces cost of trash haulage.
Reduces toxics and GHG emissions associated with the lifecycle of new products and packaging.
Green Products
Are frequently price neutral. Offer energy and water savings. Offer greater durability.Reduce maintenance costs. Eliminate or reduce solid waste haulage fees. Reduce injuries. Reduce purchases overall.
Green Products Cost Profile
Cheaper: traffic safety equipment, toner cartridgesSame: janitorial paper, computers, cleaning products, inkGood payback: vehicles, appliancesSomewhat volatile: copy paper, oil (within 10%)
From New York State presentation on Advancing Green Chemistry in Government Procurement (Responsible Purchasing Network)
Green Cleaning Programs
Reduce the number of cleaning chemicals used.
Often use a dilution control system which reduces costly overuse of chemicals.
Reduce hazardous waste management costs.
Increase facility lifespan. May reduce water bills. Better indoor air quality. Reduce splash and exposure
injuries. Microfiber mops cost more initially
but reduce janitorial staff injuries.
What’s Your Story?
Who is Buying Green?
King County
Clark County
City of Spokane
City of Tacoma
Snohomish County
City of Seattle
Pierce County
Whatcom County
NASPO Opportunity Assessments
EPP Overview
Compostable Food Serviceware
Imaging Equipment
Architectural Paint
Traffic Control Paint
Written by Responsible Purchasing Network for the Departments of Ecology and Enterprise Services
Questions?
Tina Simcich
Dept of Ecology
360.407.7517
www.ecy.wa/swfa/programs/epp