The U.S. Department of Energy gives preference to products designated by statute and regulation and encourages the purchase of more sustainable products.
The priorities are as follows:
Alternatives to Purchasing
The highest priority of Sustainable Acquisition is to avoid purchasing by seeking an alternative, repairing or substituting a used product.
Designated Products
Those products for which an Act of Congress has designated a specific attribute.
Green Procurement Compilation lists all designated products, their requirements, and potential sources for purchase. The following product types are designated:
Other Sustainable Attributes
In addition to the required designated products, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has guidance programs for Federal purchasers to use in selecting products.
Sustainable Product Standards
Optimal is to specify sustainable product standards.
The benefits for DOE sites of transitioning to more sustainable products are numerous.
