On the 26th of July, the EPA published updated versions of the Guidance on Green Public Procurement (GPP) and Irish GPP criteria. The updates reflect changes in legislation, policy and technological developments since 2021, of which there have been many. Greenville Procurement delivered the updates of the guidance and criteria as well leading on the development of a new set of GPP criteria for Furniture and Related Services. Feedback was collected from public bodies that are implementing GPP, as well as industry and civil society bodies. The new guidance and criteria are one of the key actions supporting Buying Greener: Ireland’s GPP Strategy, and the EPA will continue to work alongside DECC, the OGP, SEAI and others to drive implementation and reporting. 

Examples of areas where the guidance and criteria have changed include:

• Greater emphasis on approaches which support the circular economy (e.g. repair, use of recycled materials, end-of-life options)
• Incorporation of new EU legislation relating to deforestation, energy efficiency, batteries and ecodesign
• More detail on GPP approaches for professional services, including ICT-related services
• Simplification of criteria and greater clarity on how they can be verified
• Incorporation of criteria aligned with the GPP targets set out in Buying Greener, (e.g. at least 10%  by value of food to be certified organic; at least 20% of polyester products to be recycled)

While the GPP Criteria Search Tool has not yet been updated to reflect the new criteria, we understand this work is underway. Greenville will be helping clients to ensure their processes fully reflect the new guidance and criteria, as well as the ‘comply or explain’ mandate and reporting requirements. We are planning a client event on GPP for the early autumn, details to be confirmed. (sign up to our email newsletter below to be notified of this event). Work will also begin shortly to revise the GPP criteria for Buildings.