Approve updates to the County's Sustainable Procurement Policy. (No general fund impact) (Pistochini/Murphy)

Approve updates to the County's Sustainable Procurement Policy.

The County’s Green Purchasing Policy was last updated in 2008. Since that time, sustainable procurement practices, market availability of environmentally preferable products, and regulatory requirements have continued to evolve. This update incorporates modernization to reflect recent requirements for electric vehicle purchases, the advancement in making 100% recycled paper available to the market, and the incorporation of a sustainable information technology standard for computers and displays. The County has practiced this IT standard for years, but adopting this standard in policy formalizes its use.

In addition, Procurement, the Integrated Waste Management Division, and the Sustainability Division will work collaboratively over the coming year to evaluate and develop a broader policy update. That future effort will consider alignment with current waste management requirements, sustainability goals, and County priorities, as well as opportunities to further strengthen environmentally preferable purchasing practices across County operations.

The Department coordinated with the Innovation & Technology Services Department in adopting the new IT standard.   The Department also reviewed this update with the CAO Sustainability Division.