What is sustainable and innovative procurement?

Kestävät ja innovatiiviset hankintakeinot kuvitus

Sustainable and innovative procurement means investing public funds in responsibly produced services, products and projects in a new, innovative manner. 

Through sustainable procurement, contracting authorities choose environmentally friendly and socially and economically responsible options. This promotes markets for sustainable, environmentally friendly products. When planning procurement, sustainability aspects are taken into account by setting criteria that support sustainability for various phases of the procurement process. Sustainable procurement guides the entire supply chain in a more responsible direction, as well as promoting good practices. 

The most significant opportunities for innovative and sustainable procurement are best found where the development needs of the public sector are aligned with social challenges and companies’ expertise and technological capabilities.