Sustainable Putnam

DEC’s Municipal Green Purchasing Program

From New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s “Making Waves” e-newsletter:
Good news for local governments! Governor Hochul recently announced the new Green Purchasing Communities Program, a first in the nation program that makes it easy for local governments to ensure that the products they are purchasing have a lower environmental impact. In addition, local governments that participate will receive recognition for their commitment to purchasing green products and services. Learn more at the Green Purchasing Communities Program website.

Benefits to local governments of becoming a Green Purchasing Community:

  • Adopting a simple-to-administer green purchasing program.
  • Moving the market in a more sustainable direction.
  • Being recognized for their commitment to the environment.
  • Getting points towards Climate Smart Communities Certification.

Local governments that become a green purchasing community commit to following the GreenNY purchasing specifications that New York State government uses. By making this simple change, local governments can work towards purchasing products and services that are better for our public health and environment. With over 75 different GreenNY purchasing specifications covering office and building management supplies, electronic equipment and appliances, food service items, and transportation items, there are specifications to follow for a wide variety of items frequently purchased by local governments. In addition, GreenNY is constantly working to update existing specifications and create new ones, meaning that Green Purchasing Communities will automatically be following the latest green purchasing specifications.

Applying and becoming a Green Purchasing Community is as easy as 1, 2… that’s it!

  1. Add model language that states the local government will follow GreenNY specifications to the government’s purchasing policy. This is passed by the local government’s legislative body or other body that handles procurement policy.
  2. Submit the application, along with the resolution approving the addition of the model language, and a copy of the new purchasing policy to [email protected].

The Department of Environmental Conservation and the Office of General Services are hosting a webinar on January 17, 2023, at 2 p.m., for potential applicants. The webinar will provide an overview of the new Green Purchasing Communities Program and how local governments can participate. Those interested can register for the webinar.

Additional information is available on the Green Purchasing Communities program website or by contacting [email protected]