The new directives allow public procurement authorities to evaluate the materials they purchase also on the basis of production methods and processes that are not visible in the final product. This will make it easier for them to rely on labeling and certification as means to prove compliance with their own sustainability criteria.
FSC is particularly pleased with this recognition of labels and certificates because of the crucial role they can play in guiding sustainable purchasing. FSC was part of a coalition of partners – including the ISEAL Alliance and the Fair Trade Advocacy Office– which successfully lobbied European Union (EU) decision-makers on this aspect of the directives.
During the next two years, EU member states will have to transpose the new directives into national law. The directives offer public authorities the choice to allow two approaches to procurement: one based solely on lowest prices, and one based on a price–quality ratio, or to go for the second option only. FSC argues that as many countries as possible should opt for the price–quality ratio approach when they transpose the directives. FSC national offices will be monitoring the process of transposition, and continuing to advocate for sustainable public procurement becoming the norm.
For more information, please contact John Hontelez: j.hontelez@fsc.org