TOOL E: Standard Specifications: Objective of This Tool Benefits of Tool
TOOL E: Standard Specifications: Objective of This Tool Benefits of Tool
This Tool assists procurers in their specifications for a number of key commodities
– you can down load some of the specifications and use them directly, completely
or in part.
Before using them it is recommended that you do carry out some research on the
market and potential suppliers. These specifications can be complex and need
monitoring during the contract period and the purchasers have to be sure that
their resources stretch to this task.
Procuring IT –
Here we set out criteria which relate to market availability of IT
products. The idea is that it is better to get an improvement across the
board, using procurement to help eliminate unsustainable products,
rather than trying to reach for current best practice which hardly is
available on the market.
Procuring Construction.
This is a very complex and big issue. We argue that there are many
components of the construction process that can be influenced by green
procurement, including the design stage. The chapter sets out some of
the composite standards now available in Europe which aim to achieve a
more sustainable outcome. Detailed standards and references are
included
Procuring Food.
This is an area which has a very big environmental foot print. The Tool
provides information both for Assured Food Standards and Organic food
and sets out detailed specifications for a number of food groups.
1
Quick Actions
If you have only little time available to understand these specifications fully it may be
better to make reference to eco-labels. However apart from the EU flower and the criteria
underlying those you will need to satisfy yourself that you can use the criteria set out in
other eco-labels.
If you are really strapped for time, we have below highlighted for each commodity the 3 or 4
criteria which you can use to start moving towards more sustainable procurement.
If you have desperately little time to get your head around the inevitable complexity of
specifying criteria for greener products we strongly suggest that you team up with other
public authorities and share the challenge, perhaps by taking one commodity each and
developing it for a group of purchasing organizations.
Using this tool it shouldn’t take you long to get a specification drafted which will
substantially reduce the environmental impact of your organization.
Food - Organic All organically-produced food included in the range offered shall
meet the criteria of Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 on organic
production of agricultural products.
Organically-produced food derived from animals shall also meet the
criteria of Regulation (EC) No 1804/99 on organic livestock and
livestock produce.
Food – Vegetables, potatoes and fruits: Production shall have occurred in
Conventional accordance with: the EUREP-GAP fruit and vegetable criteria
Vegetables &
fruits
Food: Fish and Wild-caught fish raw materials must come from a stock which is
Shellfish – managed in accordance with the following: The stock is in balance
Sustainable in terms of spawning stock and fishery mortality or managed in
Stocks accordance with a set management plan (ref: Regulation (EC) No
2371/2002 article 4-6 or equivalent) which assures an increase in
the stock.
Fish caught are within the applicable quotas for the EU or equivalent
management system (ref: Regulation (EC) No 2787/2003) and
1
NB! Energy Star is not applicable for servers, keyboards and digital projectors and cameras.
2
verified within the limits of the applicable monitoring (ref:
Regulation (EC) No 2847/93).
Food of Animal Good Animal Husbandry: The product has been produced with a
origins - minimum level of animal protection in accordance with points 1-3
conventional 2 : below.
1 Have pigs been kept free range during production?
Exception: Individual sows and gilts may if necessary be housed for
a maximum of one week for birthing.
2 Have pigs had a non-slatted lying area during production?
3 Have pig crates been supplied with straw bedding or other similar
material during production?
Pasture: Have cattle been kept on pasture for at least two months
whilst raised?
Transport and Cars have to comply with the rules and levels for emissions in the
Vehicles - Cars EC Directive 98/69/EC (EURO III) or better.
Transport and Vans (under 3500 kg) have to comply with the rules and levels for
Vehicles - Vans emissions in the EC Directive 94/12/EC (EURO II) or better
Transport and Heavy goods vehicles that are used for the transports have to
Vehicles - HGV comply with the rules and levels for emissions in the EC Directive
91/542/EC or 96/1/EC (EURO II) or better
Paper - 1 At least 80% of the fibre raw material in the paper is recycled fibre;
Paper - 2 Paper / fibres must not be bleached using any chlorine substances
(TCF (Totally Chlorine Free))
Finally a word of advice – don’t despair – there are many ways of describing more
sustainable products and there is not necessarily a completely right or wrong way of
doing things. We recommend a light touch, chose criteria for which you know there is a
market so you can buy while at the same time driving change. The criteria in this tool
should help on that journey.
2
N.B! These two specifications are suggested to be used as award criteria
3
Fluorine surfactants in film formatting floor care products are excluded from the requirement.
4
Readily biodegradable surfactants, according to OECD's guidelines 301 A-F, are excluded from the
requirement, provided that known impurities and metabolites are not bio accumulative. Perfumes and softeners
in film formating floor care products are also excluded from the requirement.
5
Fluorine in toothpaste and preservatives that are classified as toxic with the risk phrases 23, 24, or 25 in
concentrations lower than the labeling limit for damage to health or sensitizing are excluded from the
requirement.
3
1 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................. 5
2 READ THIS FIRST! - SETTING UP ENVIRONMENTAL CRITERIA FOR PUBLIC
PROCUREMENT .................................................................................................... 6
2.1 Introduction ........................................................................................... 6
2.2 Can I demand the suppliers to have an Environmental Management System? .. 6
2.3 The Procura+ Campaign........................................................................... 7
3 SPECIFICATIONS FOR RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY ............................................... 9
3.1 Procuring aspects on “electricity”............................................................... 9
3.2 What is “renewable electricity?.................................................................. 9
3.3 Specification for environmental consideration of green electricity ................. 10
3.4 Evaluation of tenders:............................................................................ 11
3.5 Examples of proof of compliances:........................................................... 11
3.6 Comment: ........................................................................................... 11
4 SPECIFICATIONS FOR IT PRODUCTS .............................................................. 12
4.1 Specifications for IT-products.................................................................. 12
4.2 Examples of proof of compliance: ............................................................ 13
5 SPECIFICATIONS FOR BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS / MATERIAL ......................... 13
5.1 Pre planning and needs identification ....................................................... 13
5.2 Design Competencies: ........................................................................... 14
5.3 Projected building performance: .............................................................. 14
5.4 Urban / Rural Context:........................................................................... 15
5.5 The Construction Process / Re use and Deconstruct.................................... 15
6 SPECIFICATIONS FOR FOOD AND CATERING ................................................... 16
6.1 Sustainable food ................................................................................... 16
6.2 Sustainable food and the internal market.................................................. 16
6.3 Organic food......................................................................................... 16
6.3.1 Compulsory requirements for organically produced foodstuffs ............... 16
6.3.2 Verification: ................................................................................... 16
6.4 Conventional (“standard”) Food............................................................... 17
6.5 Core criteria for “sustainable food” .......................................................... 17
6.6 Seasonal purchasing.............................................................................. 18
6.7 Increase opportunities for small and local producers to tender ..................... 18
6.8 Protected Food Name Schemes ............................................................... 18
7 SPECIFICATIONS FOR TRANSPORT SERVICES.................................................. 18
7.1 The specification can be made by using criteria from:................................. 19
8 SPECIFICATION FOR CLEANING AGENTS......................................................... 19
8.1 The specification can be set up by using criteria from: ................................ 19
9 STANDARD PAPER SPECIFICATION................................................................. 19
10 Methodology ............................................................................................ 20
APPENDIX 1 Specification for IT-products ......................................................... 21
APPENDIX 2 Sustainable design and construction for planners and developers – cost
benefit considerations ......................................................................................... 24
APPENDIX 3 Extract from Eco Homes rating checklist ......................................... 25
APPENDIX 4 IBO(Österreichisches Institut für Baubiologie und –ökologie)- Ökopass 27
APPENDIX 5 Maximum Energy Requirements .................................................... 29
APPENDIX 6 Harmful substances ..................................................................... 30
APPENDIX 7 Code of practice – Considerate Constructors.................................... 31
APPENDIX 8 Criteria for sustainable procurement of food .................................... 32
APPENDIX 9 Specification for transport services ................................................ 39
APPENDIX 10 Specification for professional cleaning products ............................... 41
APPENDIX 11 Standard specification for recycled paper ........................................ 43
APPENDIX 12 Procura+ Specifications and evaluation model for renewable energy ... 44
4
1 INTRODUCTION
The LEAP project intends to assist public procurers in finding an easy way into the
complex maze of sustainable procurement. The 8 tools deal with most aspects of green
procurement and support both procurers and environmental specialists in introducing key
management steps needed to make green procurement the rule rather than the
exception. Throughout the tools we stress the importance of a management systems
approach to ensure that green procurement goes mainstream.
This document has been produced by the Swedish Environmental Management Council
(SEMCO, Sweden) and Global to Local (G2L, Great Britain) with the support of other LEAP
Project Partners.
Although green procurement is practiced by some public authorities, it is still not widely
applied across Europe. A reason for that can be barriers in municipalities, governmental
objections etc. It can also be due to lack of relevant information and facts about certain
products to exactly define and specify requirements and criteria to be used in the tender
documents.
This document aims to deliver standard specifications with environmental criteria for
some selected products. The priority of the products are based on their environmental
impact and purchased volume, but also decided for the LEAP Joint Procurement.
The standard specifications for different criteria are aimed to be part of an integrated
procuring and environmental management process. They can be used for procuring
public authorities for sustainable, “green”, procurement and help implement an
environmental management system.
All requirements that are used in a public procurement should follow and agree on the
legislation framework. They must not infringe the legal principles of the European Union
– free movement of goods and services, freedom of establishment and non-
discriminating. In addition the principles of proportionality, predictability, transparency
and equality should be followed. These aspects have been taken into consideration for
the criteria set out below.
Where applicable the Procura+ criteria and guidelines have been used and built upon.
The Procura+ campaign seeks to assist public sector organisations to move towards
green procurement for a number of key commodities.
5
2 READ THIS FIRST! - SETTING UP ENVIRONMENTAL CRITERIA FOR PUBLIC
PROCUREMENT 6
2.1 Introduction
This tool contains standard specifications and links to websites for some selected
products. However, the amount of hyperlinks has deliberately been kept low. There are
two reasons for that.
Firstly, one of the purposes of the tool is simply to describe how well defined
specifications, especially for goods, have to be to live up to transparency, proportionality
and other basic principles in public procurement. A comprehensive database with a
number of products that are commonly purchased and links to associated eco-labelling
schemes can be found at:
http://europa.eu.int/comm/environment/green_purchasing/cfm/fo/greenpurchasing/inde
x.cfm
When using the specification information in this tool it is recommended to follow the
advice in part in Tool F .
Secondly, it’s not appropriate to generally recommend any standard specification for
different types of services and public works as these are often very specific to the
individual circumstances. However, in theses cases it is often possible to consider
methods for environmental and/or quality management. More information about this can
be found in part 2.2 or in “Buying Green” 7 , the EU-Commission’s handbook of green
public procurement.
This tool also refers especially to Tool H, “Developing the Supply Chain”. For example,
tool H gives you information about how to cooperate with suppliers and other parties in
the market to reach environmental targets and get benefits for both sides.
In Tool F we set out the a number of general consideration relevant to for example the
use of eco-labels in specifications and you may want to refer to that tool before drawing
up your specification or making explicit reference to eco-labels.
The use of different types of management systems are today widely spread - for quality,
environmental or social aspects. Those suppliers or organisations that have any kind of a
structured and implemented management system often also have good control over the
products they produce, sell or deliver.
There are some basic rules to be aware of when you would like to take these aspects into
account in public procurement. First, it is difficult to set up and recommend some
“standard specifications” for such cases. In some cases, as the new EU directives 8 for
public procurement point out, “environmental protection measures” can be required for
6
The information is based on SEMCO’s ”Environmental Management for Procurement and
purchasing” 2004 (Swedish version), “Bying Green” – handbook from the EU-
Commission, Interpretation document from EU-Commission 2001, the Procura + Manual
2003, the case from European High Court of Justice C-513/99
7
”Buying Green” will be found at:
http://europa.eu.int/comm/environment/gpp/pdf/int.pdf
8
Directives 2004/18/EC, article 48 2f) and 2004/17/EC
6
selecting tenderers and/or awarding contract for services and construction works, but
only in “appropriate cases”. “Appropriate cases” mean that the subject matter of the
contract has to have a big environmental impact and that the measures have a
proportionate purpose. On the other hand, according to the legal texts, it is not possible
to ask for environmental management when procuring goods. The interpretation of this
new definition in law is unclear and a final judgement from the European High Court of
Justice would be desirable.
The system or routines for environmental management that can be put in evidence by
the tenderer doesn’t need to be certified and you should not require that in a tender
document either as other types of verifications have to be accepted.
Read more about this in the handbook from the EU-Commission: “Buying Green”, found
at: http://europa.eu.int/comm/environment/gpp/pdf/int.pdf
ICLEI’s Sustainable Procurement Campaign, Procura+ was launched in 2004, and is open
to any European public authority to join. The Campaign is aimed at mainstreaming the
implementation of sustainable procurement across Europe, to utilise the enormous power
of public procurement to send a strong, consistent message to the market to improve the
supply of sustainable products and services.
7
• IT products
• Cleaning products and services
• Buses
For each product group a set of simple purchasing criteria that can be applied in most
European countries are provided, which focus on the most important environmental
criteria. The purchasing criteria were developed as part of a multi-stakeholder
consultation process involving stakeholders from different Member States.
More information on the Campaign, together with the key purchasing criteria can be
found at www.procuraplus.org
The advice in this tool, where relevant, builds on the procura+ campaign material.
8
3 SPECIFICATIONS FOR RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY
“The use of renewable energy sources for producing electricity…… is useful for protecting
the environment in so far as it contributes to the reduction in emissions of greenhouse
gases which are amongst the main causes of climate change which the European
Community and its Member States have pledged to combat.
Growth in that use is amongst the priority objectives which the Community and its
Member States intend to pursue in implementing the obligations which they contracted
by virtue of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change …”
To deal with essential environmental issue the principles of free trade and the internal
market can thus in some cases be ignored.
Basically there are definitions in directive 2001/77/EG 10 and on top of that there are eco-
labelling criteria, collected under an “umbrella”, the EUGENE Standard.
Article 2
Definitions
For the purposes of this Directive, the following definitions shall apply:
(a) "renewable energy sources" shall mean renewable non-fossil energy sources (wind,
solar, geothermal, wave, tidal, hydropower, biomass, landfill gas, sewage treatment
plant gas and biogases);
(c) "electricity produced from renewable energy sources" shall mean electricity produced
by plants using only renewable energy sources, as well as the proportion of electricity
9
C379/98 Preussen-Electra AG vs Schhleswag AG
10
9
produced from renewable energy sources in hybrid plants also using conventional
energy sources and including renewable electricity used for filling storage systems, and
excluding electricity produced as a result of storage systems;
A more advanced specification can be seen in Appendix 12, which sets out the Procura+
specification.
Verification must be transparent, guarantee the origin of green electricity and that
it has not already been sold elsewhere. Independent certification should be in
compliance with EC Directive 2001/77. However, as an efficient ‘Guarantee of
Origin” system is not yet in place in many countries, tradable certificates may be
provided. Ecolabels may be used to prove compliance with the specification and
award criteria.
Because of the diversity across Europe in terms of the energy markets it would prove
problematic to set a single set of criteria for defining green electricity across Europe
which would be easily verifiable by procurers.
Note! Procurers cannot legally specify that a product must have a certain quality label
(e.g. green electricity label); however compliance with the criteria underlying these
labels can be specified, by directing suppliers to the appropriate source such as a
website. These labels can be used to demonstrate compliance with the criteria specified,
although it must also be possible for a supplier without a label to present an independent
auditor's report as alternative evidence of compliance.
Note! According to what has been mentioned above (about using eco-labelling criteria)
some exclusions may have be made concerning non-proportional requirements (such as
a requirement in the Swedish scheme for an auditor approved by SNF -the Swedish
Organisation for Nature Conservation) and the requirement that the supplier has to pay a
certain amount of money to a fund for nature preservation/research.
10
3.4 Evaluation of tenders:
When procuring electricity from renewable sources you can choose between three
different procedures – either a compulsory requirement, an award criterion or a
combination of these two. Compliance with one or more criteria system has to be met
whatever choice of method. To ensure that the supplier complies with the requirements
different proof of compliance may be required (see below, monitoring). The three
procedures could be as follows:
ii) A combination of compulsory and award criterion gives the opportunity to both require
an obligatory amount of renewable electricity and evaluate the amount that the supplier
can deliver exceeding that.
iii) Only using an award criterion and solely evaluate the amount that the supplier can
deliver.
3.6 Comment:
As supplies of renewable energy are limited and in some countries growth of demand
outstrips supply procurers need to be aware of the importance of using their procurement
influence to help generate additional capacity of renewable energy generation. The
Procura + model shown in Appendix 12 indicates one way in which procurers could seek
to influence the market in this direction.
11
4 SPECIFICATIONS FOR IT PRODUCTS
Although the environmental impacts of course vary from group to group of IT equipment,
lifecycle analysis demonstrates clearly that for all IT equipment energy consumption, and
the related environmental impacts of fossil fuel based electricity generation, during the
use phase of the product far outweighs all others 11 . The other aspects, for example the
use of PVC, (halogenated) flame retardants and other harmful substances in
construction, or the recyclability of materials used are minor, although worthwhile
concerns.
• Criteria likely to be met by 70% of the market: For Sweden these are the
EKU compulsory requirements (appendix 9). These basic criteria were developed
by SEMCO together with a group of stakeholders and purchasers. The criteria will
meet a broad part of the market (ca 70%); enough to achieve competition for the
procuring authority, but at the same time exclude products with non acceptable
environmental impact. For public authorities who would like stronger
environmental requirements there is a second choice in the document about the
level of energy consumption. Overall these criteria cover energy consumption,
contents of chemicals and recycling and a number of other issues.
11
Schmidt & Fryendal (2003) Methods for Calculating the Environmental Benefits of 'Green' Products in
Erdmenger (ed.) Buying into the Environment - Experiences, Opportunities and Potential for Eco-Procurement,
Greenleaf
12
IT- products represent: PCs (desktop and portable), monitors, printers, copy machines and multifunctional
devices
13
IT- products represent: PCs (desktop and portable), monitors, printers, copy machines and multifunctional
devices
12
4.2 Examples of proof of compliance:
Certificate (licence) for the Nordic Swan (or Blauer Engel) can be one way to prove
compliance. Other types of test reports, certifications or technical dossier from the
manufacturer must be accepted.
The detailed specifications for IT products can be found in Appendix 1 to this tool
Whilst many public sector organisations have their own in-house design resources, it is
not uncommon to procure both design and build. We are therefore covering the design
aspect as well. The right design skills can drive down the environmental impact of
buildings substantially. Indeed this is probably the single most important factor that
determines the future environmental performance of any building. Taking a view on the
composite environmental performance of a building and adjusting a range of technical
parameters for better performance is a second key area, whilst considering the setting of
new buildings in their context and optimising environmental impacts is the third area
covered. Finally we make some references to the construction process.
This area of procurement is developing quickly but is far from main stream. A number of
planning and management steps can be taken to drive the agenda in this field. For
example:
sufficient time should be allowed in the tendering process to engage in discussions
with potential providers so that the market can be properly explored (and also
informed of future tendering needs
13
Sufficient lead time may need to be given to allow potential contractors to source
materials and educate staff;
The invitation to tender can set strong signals by stating in the title of the ITT that
this is procurement of sustainable buildings;
This area needs innovation and this should be reflected in the evaluation criteria.
Variants should be used to encourage new ideas;
The use of improvement plans and EMS approaches in the building trade could be
accelerated via the procurement process.
Experience to date shows that introducing more sustainable construction processes
may require long term cooperation between procurer and contractor. Experience with
FSC timber shows that contract requirements may need to be followed through many
layers of contractors and sub contractors to ensure proper implementation. (also
refer to Tools B and F)
Prioritising areas that have the most significant effect. There are a wide range of
measures that can improve the sustainability performance of buildings. Not all measures
have the same effect nor is the cost/benefit ratio the same in each case. There have
been several efforts to try to identify those areas which are most important in terms of
environmental gains. These are the areas where specifications could demand particular
good performance. http://www.sustainable-construction.org.uk/ provides a cost /benefit
calculation for a number of measures that can make building more sustainable.
Appendix 2 summarises the High gain / low to medium cost measures. The Ecohomes
rating check list is shown as Appendix 3. This shows how various aspects of a building
are rated in terms of their environmental (sustainability) performance. Appendix 4 gives
a similar example from the Austrian IBO. Tools are yet at an early development and do
not in all instances agree with each other.
Thermal Performance; There are a wide range of standards available throughout Europe.
Recommended specifications for new buildings and for buildings undergoing substantial
renovations are contained in pp119 and pp230 of the procura + manual. These are based
14
on standards set by MINERGIE www.minergie.ch. Appendix 5 provides an extract from
the Procura+ standards.
The specification of timber species is crucial as this can affect whether the contractor can
source this timber with an appropriate sustainability accreditation. P 235 of the Procura+
manual sets out the current position on the definition of sustainable forestry and
verification criteria and also provides reference to one appropriate certification namely
FSC. http://www.fscoax.org For more information visit the WWF guide for Local public
authorities (Site to be advised)
Composite standards for more sustainable buildings; These are assessed before the
building is constructed and need to be validated on completion. A number of composite
standards exist including Minergie Standards, which are absolute ( www.minergie.ch,
)EcoHomes and BREEAM ( http://products.bre.co.uk/breeam/ecohomes.html ) and
Ökopass (http://www.ibo.at/oekopass.htm#bewertung ), which all give a range broadly
from pass to excellent. It is up to the specifier to determine the cumulative
environmental impact of their buildings – the higher the rating the lower and therefore
better the impact. A checklist of key considerations for sustainable construction is set
out on pages 239 to 242 in the Procura + manual.
15
6 SPECIFICATIONS FOR FOOD AND CATERING
• respect for and operating within the biological limits of natural resources
(especially soil, water and biodiversity).
• achieve consistently high standards of environmental performance by reducing
energy consumption, by minimising resource inputs, and use renewable energy
wherever possible.
• achieve consistently high standards of animal health and welfare.
• Safe and healthy products in response to market demand and ensure that all
consumers have access to nutritious food, and to accurate information about food
products.
• Sustainable land management, both through the market and through payments for
public benefits.
• Promote these principles wherever the food is produced and processed
The EC Treaty, EC directives and the national regulations that implement them are
designed to ensure that public procurement is fair, transparent and non-discriminatory.
This means for example that the distance travelled to deliver food, or the locality in
which it is produced, cannot be a specific factor in awarding the contract, as this would
be discriminatory. It is however permitted for public sector contracting public authorities
to set
reasonable requirements for delivery frequencies, freshness, taste etc. Such criteria may
appear to give local suppliers a competitive advantage, but provided a foreign supplier is
not denied an opportunity to compete on equal terms by, for example, setting up an
operation in the other country- then such criteria might be legitimate. The EC’s
Interpretative Communication on environmental issues in public procurement
(COM(2002/274/EG)) confirms that methods of processing and production can be
requested in the technical specifications of the tender where these help to specify the
performance characteristics of the product or service. This includes both process and
production methods that “physically” affect the end product (e.g. absence of chemicals)
and those that do not, but nevertheless affect the “nature” of the end product such as
“organically grown foodstuffs”.
6.3.2 Verification:
Certificate or equivalent evidence that the product is approved by an accredited national
certifying body or by one according to the Regulation approved certifying body within EU.
14
DEFRA - Government's Strategy for Sustainable Farming and Food in
England (DEFRA = Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs)
15
IFOAM = International Federation of Organic Association Movement
16
It is obviously possible to require organic products in public procurement. It is however
not permitted to sell anything that is called “organic” unless it is controlled and certified.
You will find the Regulation 2092/91/EEG for organic food here:
http://europa.eu.int/servlet/portail/RenderServlet?search=DocNumber&lg=sv&nb_docs=
25&domain=Legislation&coll=&in_force=NO&an_doc=1991&nu_doc=2092&type_doc=Re
gulation
In the UK, DEFRA has also developing several tools for procurement of sustainable food,
for example: “Guidance for buyers and their internal customers” 16 and “Catering
Services and Food Procurement Toolkit”
The toolkit has been produced to help promote the Public Sector Food Procurement
Initiative (PSFPI) and can be embedded into future catering and food supply contracts
across the public sector. The background to the PSFPI is the Government’s Strategy for
Sustainable Farming and Food – Facing the Future. This aims to secure a sustainable
world class farming and food sector, contributing to a better environment and healthy
and prosperous communities.
This document points out some important issues. The PSFPI aims to that food procured,
meets the agreed standards of good agricultural practice as laid down by Farm Assurance
16
Revised may 2005. Available at http://www.defra.gov.uk/farm/sustain/procurement/index.htm.
17
schemes such as The Little Red Tractor, the EUREP GAP or Integrated Farm Assurances
or equivalent. The initiative also aims to increase the amount of organic food procured.
This “toolkit” can be a useful guide for procurement of food and catering. Please keep
updated at http://www.defra.gov.uk/farm/sustain/procurement/index.htm.
• Consider longer term contracts to develop new suppliers who need to make
investments e.g. more sustainable methods of production or processing.
• Standardise the data required from potential suppliers and tailor the information
requested for different goods or services. Ensure the information necessary for them
to understand the requirements of the contract are placed up front and not buried in
the tender documents. Simplify the contract documents and add a degree of
standardisation, where feasible.
• Remove unnecessary restrictions that prevent local businesses from competing to
supply food - while avoiding giving them preferential treatment that would be in
contravention of the procurement rules
More information in the DEFRA documents mentioned.
The EU Protected Food Names Schemes came into force in 1993 and provide for a system
for the protection of food names on a geographical or traditional recipe basis, similar to
the familiar 'appellation controlee' system used for wine. The three schemes (Protected
Designation of Origin, Protected Geographical Indication and Traditional Speciality
Guaranteed (also know as Certificate of Specific Character) highlight regional and
traditional foods whose authenticity and origin can be guaranteed through an
independent inspection system. These can be specified in tenders.
http://www.defra.gov.uk/foodrin/foodname/pfood01.htm
17
See “Buying Green” http://europa.eu.int/comm/environment/gpp/pdf/int.pdf
18
7.1 The specification can be made by using criteria from:
• EKU criteria (extract with compulsory requirements, conditions for performance of the
contract: Appendix 9
• The Procura+ Manual pages 132-149 (the criteria concern only buses, but some
general aspects and information are useful. See www.procuraplus.org
The use of cleaning agents may negatively effect the environment and the occupational
health of employees. The environmental impacts of cleaning products relate almost
exclusively to the existence of a variety of more or less harmful chemicals in the products
themselves. These chemicals may have a harmful effect on the local environment, and in
particular the aquatic environment, as chemical residues can still remain in the water
even after efficient waste water treatment. The following problems may be connected
with chemicals contained in cleaning agents:
• Air pollution and contribution to ozone formation (smog) by volatile organic
compounds (VOCs)
• Bioaccumulation from chemicals which are not, or poorly biodegradable
• Hazardous effects on aquatic organisms
• Skin irritation or allergic reactions
• Damage to skin, eyes or lungs or materials caused by strong acids or strong alkaline
components
The criteria set out in Appendix 10 are valid for institutional cleaning products used
for general cleaning and maintenance of buildings (e.g. hospitals, offices, schools)
such as all-purpose or neutral cleaners, sanitary or toilet cleaners, restroom or
bathroom cleaners, dishwashing detergents (hand dishwashing detergents and
dishwashing detergents for machines), laundry detergents, softener, glass and
alcohol cleaners, carpet cleaning agents, floor strippers and floor care products. These
criteria are not valid for industrial cleaners and other special cleaning applications.
These criteria are similar to Procura+ criteria, but were slightly revised when they
were going to be used in the first Joint Procurement within the LEAP project. The
reason for this was that the criteria tended to be difficult to verify exactly as the
Security Data Sheets for the products did not include components contained in the
different chemical mixtures that are used in the product, and only declare the
components of the final product. The EKU criteria were developed by a group of
producers and suppliers of cleaning products with a very good knowledge of what is
available on the market in Sweden, for both public and private consumption.
19
• dust
The environmental impact of paper products from a life cycle perspective mainly derives
from the manufacturing process and the use of natural resources.
Referring to what is mentioned in Tool F, para 2.4 it is unclear if it is possible to use any
requirements or award criteria concerning these aspects.
The standard specification for paper (see Appendix 11) has been used in a “Joint
Procurement” action, arranged as part of the LEAP project with participants from Greece,
Spain and Portugal.
10 Methodology
We have investigated to what extent specified environmental criteria existed - for the
identified product groups and suitable for public procurement.
Some of the suggested criteria in this document are developed by the Swedish
Environmental Management Council (SEMCO) and their criteria system “EKU” for
sustainable procurement. The process behind these criteria and guidelines is
characterised by a transparent cooperation with manufactures, suppliers, purchasers,
eco-labelling organisations etc. Scientific as well as legal principles provide the basic
framework.
For the area of building constructions and material in general references are from
different branches of trade organisations and different relevant standards.
Where applicable the Procura+ criteria and guidelines have been used and built upon.
The Procura+ concept is to define some key criteria for key product groups, which have a
major impact on the environment and is based on a detailed European consultation
process involving all key stakeholder groups which took place during the RELIEF project 18
18
www.iclei-europe.org/relief
20
APPENDIX 1 Specification for IT-products
The requirement specification covers the following product categories:
A.1. The producers’ responsibility for packaging has to be fulfilled according to the EC
Directive 94/62 with amendments).
A.2. The producers responsibility for electrical and electronic equipment has to be
fulfilled according to the directive 2002/96/EG with amendments (WEEE).
B. Compulsory requirements for the product
All requirements in part A must be met before the tender can be processed in the
evaluation.
Table showing which compulsory requirements that are relevant for each product.
Product (tick designated product/products Compulsory
below) requirements (B)
Computer system unit 1, 2, 3, 4
Mobile/portable computer 1, 2, 3, 4
Server 1, 2, 3
Display/monitor 1, 2, 3, 4
Keyboard 2, 3
Digital projector and camera 1, 2, 3
Printer 1, 2, 3, 4
Copier 1, 2, 3, 4
Fax 1, 2, 3, 4
Multifunction product 1, 2, 3, 4
Scanner 1, 2, 3, 4
Material requirements
B.1. Product is free from batteries defined as hazardous (Directive 91/157/EEC).
NB! Lead batteries for backup / emergency backup (Uninterrupted Power Supply, UPS)
for e.g. servers are excluded from the requirement.
Verification: relevant eco-label, relevant IT ECO declaration version 2000 or later, copy of
letter signed by a competent person, product assurance or similar position.
B.2. Plastic parts > 25g are free from lead (Pb), i.e. less than, 0.1% by weight.
Verification: relevant eco-label, relevant IT ECO declaration version 2000 or later, copy of
letter signed by a competent person, product assurance or similar position.
19
Multifunction products have two or more functions, e.g. printer, copier, fax, telephone, scanner
21
B.3. Plastic parts >25g are free from PBB/PBDE 20 , i.e. less than 0.1% by weight.
Verification: relevant eco-label, relevant IT ECO declaration version 2000 or later, copy of
letter signed by a competent person, product assurance or similar position.
Energy consumption
B.4.
OPTION 1: The product meets the requirements of ENERGY STAR®21 ,or equivalent, that
were valid for the specific product category by the time the product was released/put on
the market.
OPTION 2: The product meets the requirements of the latest version of ENERGY STAR®
,or equivalent, that is valid for the specific product category by the final date for receipt
of tenders.
Verification: Relevant eco-label, Energy Star Label, a signed copy of Energy Star MOU
(Memorandum of Understanding), relevant IT ECO declaration version 2000 or later, copy
of a test protocol following the test methods stated by Energy Star or similar position.
C. Award criteria
Table showing which award criteria that is relevant for each product.
20
The PBB (Poly Brominated Biphenyl) and PBDE (Poly Brominated Diphenyl Ether) flame-retardants are:
decabrombiphenyl CAS no 13654-09-6
pentabromdiphenyleter CAS no 32534-81-9
octabromodiphenyleter CAS no 32536-52-0
decabromodiphenyleter CAS no 1163-19-5
monobromodiphenyleter CAS no 101-553
dibromodiphenyleter CAS no 2050-477
tribomodiphenyleter CAS no 49690-940
tetrabromodiphenyleter CAS no 40088-47-9
hexabromodiphenyleter CAS no 36483-60-0
heptabromodiphenyleter CAS no 68928-80-3
monabromodiphenyleter CAS no 63936-56-1
21
For information about Energy Star see: www.eu-energystar.org/en/index.html
22
Printer 1, 3, 4
Copier 1, 3, 4
Fax 1, 3, 4
Multifunction product 1, 3, 4
Scanner 1, 3, 4
Information to the purchaser: Every criteria has to be given a point, “a value” with
comply with the purchasing authority’s own range of points or evaluation system.
NB! Exclude this text before sending the specification to the tenderer!
Energy consumption
C.1. The product meets the requirements of the latest version of GEEA 22 , or equivalent,
that is valid for the specific product category by the final date for receipt of tenders.
Yes
No
NB! For copiers this criterion is valid for standard sized copiers (up to and including
oversize A3).
Verification C.1: IT ECO declaration version 2000 or later, GEEA-documentation, copy
of letter signed by a competent person, product assurance or similar position.
C.2. Desktop or portable computer meets the energy save requirements of EU Eco-label
(2001/687/EC) 23 and/or the Nordic Swan (version 3.2) 24 .
Yes
No
Yes
No
Material requirements
C.4. The background illumination for flat displays must not contain more than 3 mg of
mercury per lamp (average value) 25 .
Yes
No
Verification C.2-4: relevant eco-label, relevant IT ECO declaration version 2000 or later,
copy of letter signed by a competent person, product assurance or similar position.
22
For information about GEEA, see: www.gealabel.org
23
For information about EU Eco-label, see: http://europa.eu.int/comm/environment/ecolabel/
24
For information about the Nordic Swan, see: www.svanen.nu
25
There are a number of different methods for analysing mercury content, some of the methods are stated
below:
• Analyse method in accordance with EU Eco-label criteria for light sources (2002/747/EG), see
http://www.blomman.nu/pdf/ljuskällor.pdf
• ISO 7252:1984 / BS3900-B16:1990. See:
http://www.iso.org/iso/en/CatalogueDetailPage.CatalogueDetail?CSNUMBER=13906&ICS1=87&ICS2=40&I
CS3=
California Department of Toxic Substances Control, Preliminary Report - February 2004, Determination of
Regulated Elements in Laptop Computers and LCD, Desktop Monitors for SB 20, Appendix A1. See:
http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/HazardousWaste/CRTs/HWMP_REP_SB20_LCD.pdf
23
APPENDIX 2 Sustainable design and construction for planners and
developers – cost benefit considerations
Communal (for flats) segregated waste bins, storage space for recyclable materials;
Water efficient products 2/4 l dual flush;
Airtight construction
Condensing Boiler – 90% efficient
Energy efficient appliances
Individual segregated waste bins, storage for recyclable materials;
Efficient internal lighting and controls – CFLs of fluorescent strips for all internal lighting
24
APPENDIX 3 Extract from Eco Homes rating checklist
Web reference:
http://products.bre.co.uk/breeam/pdf/EcoHomes2005RatingChecklist.pdf,
Transport
Public Transport 2.14
Cycle Storage 2.14
Local Amenities 3.21
Home Office 1.07
Total Transport 8.06
Pollution
Insulation ODP and GWP 2.14
NOx emissions 6.43
Reduction of surface runoff 4.28
Zero Emission Energy 2.14
Source
Pollution Total 14.99
Materials
Timber: Basic building 2.90
elements
Timber: Finishing elements 1.45
Recyclable Materials 2.90
Environmental Impact of 7.73
Materials
Materials Total 14.98
Water
Internal Water Use 8.33
External Water Use 1.67
Water Total 10.00
25
Land Use and Ecology 15.01
Total
Rating Score
Pass 36
Good 48
Very Good 60
Excellent 70
26
APPENDIX 4 IBO(Österreichisches Institut für Baubiologie und –
ökologie)- Ökopass
Web reference: http://www.ibo.at/oekopass.htm#bewertung
Key criteria
The Ökopass-criteria are divided in two groups – user quality and ecological quality. Only
8 criteria are used:
User quality:
Ecological quality:
Comfort during summer and winter: Current legal requirements form the basis of this
part of the assessment. The lower the tendency to overheat and the higher the thermal
qualities of windows and walls, the better is the thermal comfort of the accommodation
and consequently the score in the Ökopass.
Internal Air Quality: There are no legal requirements for this. The criteria relate to
international research and the precautionary principle. The lower the level of pollutants
the better.
Noise: The starting point here is current legal requirements relating to noise insulation.
The better the insulation standard the less noise in the accommodation and consequently
a better score in the assessment.
Day and Sun lighting: There are only limited legal requirements in this field. However
the Ökopass pays much attention to this as sun and day lighting is important for comfort.
The more flats in an estate that have a day light factor of 2% and direct sun light for
more than 1.5 hours a day the better the score.
Electromagnetic quality: The limits for electric and magnetic fields in a residential area
is laid down in the ONORMEN. The limits in the Ökopass are 1000 times lower.
Total energy concept: Here not only the energy need of the building is taken into
account but also how that energy has been generated and distributed. District heating
and use of renewable energy sources merit higher scores.
Water use: Here the use and management of water is evaluated. A score can be
achieved through water saving devices, water saving WCs, permeable surfaces around
the dwellings to allow water to soak away and use of rain water.
27
Ökopass - Evaluation
How is the development evaluated? The entire development is evaluated and based
on the assessment of unfurnished accommodation. There are four levels
Excellent: Ambitious technical solutions resulting in excellent comfort and lower running
costs that save resources and minimise the impact on the environment.
Very Good: Solutions that substantially increase the comfort and that minimise the
impact on the environment;
Good: Solid solutions that are substantially better than those normally on the market.
Pass: Achievement of the Okopass criteria, that mostly exceed legal requirements and
guidance.
28
APPENDIX 5 Maximum Energy Requirements
29
APPENDIX 6 Harmful substances
Extract from Procura+ manual page 122
Key criteria:
The following materials to are excluded from the construction of new and the renovation
of existing buildings:
Products which contain fluorohydrocarbons (H-FKW)
Products which contain sulphure hexafluoride (SF6)
Paints and varnishes 26 with a solvent content higher than
- for wall paints (according to EN 13300): 30g/l (minus water)
- for other paints with a spreading rate of at least 15m2/l at a hiding power of 98%
capacity: 250g/l (minus water)
- for all other products (including paints that are not wall paints and that have a
spreading rate of less than 15m2/l, varnishes, wood stains, floor coatings and floor
paints and related products): 180g/l (minus water)
Wood which is not sustainably harvested 27
26
The criteria is based on the European Ecolabel
27
The definition of sustainably harvested wood , the verification requirements provided in in Annex B1.3 of the
procura+ manual can simply be attached to the tender documentation. Please note that the concept of
sustainable timber has been subject to considerable debate in various EU countries. The work carried out by
DEFRA in the UK is one example which is being looked at in other countries as a potential model
http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2006/060216c.htm
.
30
APPENDIX 7 Code of practice – Considerate Constructors
http://www.considerateconstructorsscheme.org.uk/#
Consideration:
All work is to be carried out with positive consideration to the needs of traders and
businesses, site personnel and visitors, pedestrians, shoppers and general public. Special
attention is to be given to the needs of those with sight, hearing and mobility difficulties.
Environment:
Noise from construction operations and all other sources is to be kept to a minimum at
all times. Consideration should be given to the selection and use of resources, using local
wherever possible. Attention should be paid to waste management and the avoidance of
pollution - recycling of surplus materials is encouraged.
Cleanliness:
The working site is to be kept clean and in good order at all times. Temporary safety
barriers, lights and warning signs are to be maintained in a clean and safe condition.
Surplus materials and rubbish shall not be allowed to accumulate on the site or spill over
on to the surrounding environment. Dust from construction operations shall be kept to a
minimum.
Neighbourliness:
General information regarding the scheme shall be provided for all neighbours affected
by the work. Full and regular communications with neighbours, including adjacent traders
and businesses, regarding programming and site activities shall be maintained from pre-
start to completion.
Respect:
Respectable and safe standards of dress shall be maintained at all times. Lewd or
derogatory behaviour and language should not be tolerated, under threat of severe
disciplinary action. Pride in the management and appearance of the site and the
surrounding environment is to be shown at all times. Operatives shall be instructed in
dealing with the general public.
Safety:
Construction operations and site vehicle movements are to be carried out with care and
consideration for the safety of the general public, traders, shoppers as well as site
personnel. No building activity shall be a security risk to others.
Responsiblity:
Considerate Constructors will ensure that all site personnel, specialist sub-contractors,
drivers and any other persons working on the site understand and implement the
obligations of this Code, and will monitor their compliance with it.
Accountability:
Considerate Constructors Scheme posters are to be displayed around the site, giving
names and telephone numbers of staff who can be contacted in response to issues raised
by the general public, traders, shoppers and others affected by the site operations.
31
APPENDIX 8 Criteria for sustainable procurement of food
The examples of criteria that are listed below are taken from the EKU-criteria for
sustainable food. They give two options: the first alternative is to buy organic food and
the second alternative is to buy “conventional food” that complies with the defined
criteria. The procuring authority has to specify the amount and the products that are
supposed to be organic.
The complete EKU-criteria contain both further criteria for food products and criteria for
canteen/catering services, deliveries and food packaging as well as background
information and information about the most important current legislation for every
product groups. For more details and further criteria, please see www.eku.nu 28
Indicator of origin
All food products of animal origin must carry an indicator of origin in accordance with the
principles set out in Regulation (EC) No 1825/2000 (hatched/born, raised, slaughtered).
Eggs must be marked in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 2052/2003 and (EC) No
2295/2003.
Salmonella
28
The EKU-system is a Swedish guideline with i.e. criteria for sustainable procurement. It is administrated by
the Swedish Environmental Management Council.
29
The regulations are available in the European Commission Regulation (EC) No 331/2000.
32
The product must be free from all types of salmonella.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics must only have been used when prescribed by a veterinary surgeon, and only
to prevent, diagnose, alleviate or combat disease or the symptoms of disease.
Feed
Nitrogen losses
The suppliers’ producing farms (the primary producers) must have adopted measures to
improve the efficiency of nitrogen flows and reduce nitrogen losses in accordance with
the Good Agriculture Practice (GAP) outlined in the nitrates directive (91/676/EEC), for
example through plant nutrient balance and plant cultivation plans.
Proposed verification:
or equivalent verification/documentation
Award Criteria
The product has been produced with a minimum level of animal protection in accordance
with points 1-3 below 30 .
30
Cf. the Swedish Animal Welfare Act (1988:534) §§ 2 and 4, and any future EC directive provisions –
Directive 1998/58/EC – protection of animals kept for farming purposes (OJ 1998 no. L221)
Directive 1993/119/EC – protection of animals at the time of slaughter or killing (OJ 1993 no. L)
Directive 1991/630/EEC – minimum standards for the protection of pigs (OJ 1991 no. L) with amendments in
accordance with Directive 2001/93/EC
Directive 1991/629/EEC – minimum standards for the protection of calves
Directive 91/628/EEC – protection of live animals during transport (OJ 1995 no. L148)
Directive 1999/74/EC – minimum standards for the protection of laying hens
33
Exception: Individual sows and gilts may if necessary be housed for a maximum of one
week for birthing.
(Ref: forthcoming EC regulations 2006, but with exceptions four weeks after covering
and one week before mating up until weaning: Directive 2001/93/EC – minimum
standards for the protection of pigs including latest amendments, DFS 2004:17)
3 Have pig crates been supplied with straw bedding or other similar material
during production?
Method of slaughter.
Pasture
Have cattle been kept on pasture for at least two months whilst raised?
GMOs in feed
C.4 Have the animals been transported for no longer than 8 hours to slaughter (11 hours
in sparsely-populated areas)?
Proposed verification:
or
31
Being free from GMOs means that the feed does not contain genetically modified ingredients in such
quantities that they should be listed. GMOs = Genetically modified organisms. Labelling of GMOs in food and
feeds is regulated by Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 and the traceability of GMOs is regulated by Regulation
(EC) No 1830/2003.
34
C. Criteria for vegetables and potatoes (fresh/frozen) and fruit (incl. bananas)
or
Production regulations for EurepGAP, including the growing criteria above, can be found
at www.eurep.org
Information about the Rainforest Alliance and its regulations can be found at
www.rainforest-alliance.org
Proposed verification:
or equivalent verification/documentation
Award Criteria
Has the product been grown without the use of chemical pesticides or only using those
which have been approved for organic growing?
or
32
“Major Musts” and “Minor Musts” in EurepGAP control points and compliance criteria for fruit and vegetables
(excluding Section 12, Worker Health, Safety and Welfare), see www.eurep.org
33
“Major Musts” and “Minor Musts” in EurepGAP control points and compliance criteria for fruit and vegetables
(excluding Section 12, Worker Health, Safety and Welfare)., see www.eurep.org
35
equivalent systems or production methods which encompass the above points
Award Criteria
Growth regulators
Has production taken place without the use of growth regulators for all cereals except for
rye (wheat, barley, oats) which are included in the product?
Verification:
Has production taken place without the use of any sludge or using sludge which meets
the requirements below?
Verification:
Or equivalent
Sustainable stocks.
Wild-caught fish raw materials must come from a stock which is managed in accordance
with the following:
34
SPCR 120 is a quality certification standard for biofertilisers. See www.rvf.se. 34REVAQ is a collaborative
project between municipal water and sewage works, foodstuffs manufacturers, farming associations and
environmental movements, together with consumers and retailers. See www.revaq.se. There is a German
certification system (Bundesgütegemeinschaft Kompost eV) and a European system is currently being
developed. The European Compost Network (ECN, http://www.compostnetwork.info/) is developing this
system, and it will be similar to those in place in Germany and Sweden.Information about the German system
is available at the website of the Compost Quality Assurance Organisation (BGK), http://www.bgkev.de/ .
36
The stock is in balance in terms of spawning stock and fishery mortality (see separate
attached fish list, Appendix 1) or managed in accordance with a set management plan
(ref: Regulation (EC) No 2371/2002 article 4-6 or equivalent) which assures an increase
in the stock.
Fish caught are within the applicable quotas for the EU or equivalent management
system (ref: Regulation (EC) No 2787/2003) and verified within the limits of the
applicable monitoring (ref: Regulation (EC) No 2847/93).
Aquaculture.
Antibiotics may only be used when prescribed by a veterinarian, and only to prevent,
diagnose, alleviate or combat disease or the symptoms of disease.
Award Criteria
Ecolabelled production.
What proportion of the range offered meets KRAV wild fish and aquaculture criteria and
MSC criteria respectively?
Antibiotics
Antibiotics must only have been used when prescribed by a veterinary surgeon, and only
to prevent, diagnose, alleviate or combat disease or the symptoms of disease.
Feed
Fish meal is not used in feed for ruminants (cattle and sheep).
Award Criteria
Pasture
Have dairy cows been kept on pasture for at least two months of the year?
GMOs
35
Being free from GMOs means that the feed does not contain genetically modified ingredients in such
quantities that they should be listed.
37
Sludge
Has milk been produced exclusively on farms where no sewage sludge has been spread?
N.B! EKU recommendation is to purchase organic coffee as the first choice. However,
other systems for sustainable production of coffee are being established, but it is too
early at the procurement stage to require that the supplier must have access to coffee
which is certified or meets the equivalent criteria. An option is to set that up as an award
criteria.
Option 1
All coffee included in the range available must meet the requirements of an IFOAM 36
certified programme and must be monitored by an EU regulatory body or a regulatory
body approved as being equivalent to EU monitoring in accordance with Regulation (EEC)
No 2092/91 on organic production.
Option 2
Conventionally-produced coffee
Does the coffee on offer originate from a production method that fulfils the requirements
of Utz Kapeh, EurepGAP or an equivalent body?
Verification:
Certification or equivalent which shows that the coffee complies with the criteria
according to Utz Kapeh, EUREP-GAP or other equivalent agriculture system.
36
IFOAM = the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements
38
APPENDIX 9 Specification for transport services
A. Compulsory requirements
A. Compulsory requirements
Cars
Cars have to comply with the rules and levels for emissions in the EC Directive 98/69/EC
(EURO III) or better.
Vans have to comply with the rules and levels for emissions in the EC Directive 94/12/EC
(EURO II) or better.
The supplier has the responsibility to ensure that all permanent drivers are trained in
“environmentally conscious driving” by the time of the start of the contract or starts a
training course within six months from that time. New permanent drivers have to be
trained during the contract period. Planning schemes or similar have to be presented by
the time the contract begins.
In brief these are the four basic rules: shift up in gear as soon as possible, maintain a
steady speed, anticipate traffic flow and decelerate smoothly. For more information see
for example www.ecodrive.org
39
B 2. Fuel consumption
Connected with item B.1 above the supplier has to monitor and audit the fuel
consumption with a driving-style meter or similar for the vehicles used for the contract.
Routines or similar have to be presented by the time the contract begins.
Cars
The requirement for EURO III means that the cars are from about year 2000 or later.
Earlier manufactured cars can also meet the requirements.
Vans
The requirement for EURO II means that the vans are from about 1998 or later. EURO III
is the requirement for vans put on the market after year 2001. The availability of EURO
III vehicles is variable and market research is recommended before setting up EURO III
as a compulsory requirement. EURO III can also be used as an award criteria.
40
APPENDIX 10 Specification for professional cleaning products
A. Compulsory requirements
All requirements in part A must be met before the tender can be processed in the
evaluation.
The product
A.1. Surfactants are readily biodegradable according to OECD:s guidelines 301 A-F, i.e.
biodegradable more than 60% (measured as CO2/BOD) or 70% (measured as DOC).
Fluorine surfactants in film formatting floor care products are excluded from the
requirement.
A.2. Actively added substances and known impurities and metabolites are not bio
accumulative according to the EC Directive 67/548/EEG with amendments, i.e. log Pow
are < 3 or experimentally fixed BCF are ≤ 100 37
Readily biodegradable surfactants, according to OECD's guidelines 301 A-F, are excluded
from the requirement, provided that known impurities and metabolites are not bio
accumulative. Perfumes and softeners in film formatting floor care products are also
excluded from the requirement.
A.3. Added substances and known impurities and metabolites are not classified as very
toxic, toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction with the indication of
danger toxic (risk phrases R23, R24, R25, R26, R27, R28, R39, R45, R46, R48, R49, R60,
R61) according to the EC Directive 67/548/EEG with amendments.
Fluorine in toothpaste and preservatives that are classified as toxic with the risk phrases
23, 24, or 25 in concentrations lower than the labelling limit for damage to health or
sensitizing are excluded from the requirement.
A.4. The product is not classified as dangerous to the environment according to the EC
Directive 1999/45/EC with amendments.
A.5. The product is not classified as sensitizing in accordance with the rules and criteria’s
in EC Directive 1999/45/EC with amendments.
A.6. Added perfume blends are produced in accordance with IFRA norms. "Perfume" is
declared in accordance with EC regulation 648/2004, annex VII. Musk xylene and musk
ketone are not added in concentrations exceeding admitted amounts according to the
cosmetic directive.
A.7. Compounds with active chlorine are not a part of the product formulation.
Products intended for specific disinfection and bleaching or mould cleaning can be
excluded from the requirement.
37
For an explanation of terms see http://glossary.eea.europa.eu/EEAGlossary
41
A.8. EDTA above 0,1% b.w. is not a part of the product formulation.
Dearomatized naphtha with <1% aromatic hydrocarbons and <0,1% benzene are
excluded from the requirements.
Packaging
A.12. The producers’ responsibility for packaging has to be fulfilled according to the EC
Directive 94/62 with amendments).
Products intended for personal care are excluded from the requirement since INCI
labelling is required according to the cosmetic directive.
B. Award criteria
The award criteria will be part of the further evaluation of the tenders.
Packaging
B.1. Is plastic material in primary and secondary packaging labelled in accordance with
DIN 6120-1 and DIN 6120-2 or the equivalent?
B.2. Are there dosage instructions on the packaging if the product is intended for manual
dosage?
42
APPENDIX 11 Standard specification for recycled paper
Material inputs
At least 80% of the fibre raw material in the paper is recycled fibre
Verification: The tender has to present a certificate to demonstrate that at least 80% of
the fibres are recycled. The certificates can be the Blue Angel or equivalent or a self-
declaration.
Bleaching methods
Paper / fibres must not be bleached using any chlorine substances (TCF (Totally Chlorine
Free))
Verification: Documentation/certificate from the manufacturer.
38
2. Durability > 100 years, according to ISO 9706, DIN 6738 or equivalent
Verification: ISO or DIN certificate or equivalent
38
The results of the DIN test must me LC/LDK 12.80
43
APPENDIX 12 Procura+ Specifications and evaluation model for
renewable energy
The Procura+ definition is stricter than that set by the European Commission, and has
been developed together with key European stakeholders to be usable by any European
public authority:
Wind
Geothermal
Solar
Biomass, if they meet the criteria outlined in the Eugene Standard Technical
Document, paragraphs 2.4 – 2.7, available at www.eugenestandard.org
Hydro (though not more than 50% of the RES-E supply offered).
CHP on the basis of renewable energy sources (biomass, biogas, geothermal)
To make sure that the green electricity procurement leads to a genuine environmental
additionality in terms of supply and quality, Procura+, in line with EUGENE and affiliated
labels, advises local authorities to ask for a certain percentage of the supplied green
electricity to derive from “new” plants (see box below).
Procura + Specifications:
a) At least 50% 39 of the supplied electricity must come from renewable energy
sources (RES-E). Eligible sources are:
Wind
Geothermal
Solar
Biomass, if they meet the criteria outlined in the Eugene Standard Technical
Document, paragraphs 2.4 – 2.7, available at www.eugenestandard.org
Hydro – not more than 50% of overall RES-E supply.
CHP on the basis of renewable energy sources (biomass, biogas, geothermal)
In addition, verification must be provided by a credible independent third party that the
specification and award criteria are met. This may include ecolabel certification.
39
Figure to be inserted by procurer according to the targets set by the decision-making
body
44
an overall capacity of 30% (RES-E from ‘new’ plants) of the supplied
electricity 40
Procura+ recommends to take the following considerations into account in the evaluation
phase of tenders 41 :
I. 2 bonus points will be awarded for every additional 5% the electricity supplied
from “new” renewable plants (above the 30% required in the specification). A
maximum of 10 points may be awarded.
II. 2 bonus points will be awarded if the supplied hydro meets the criteria outlined in
the Eugene Standard Technical Document, paragraphs 2.2 – 2.3, available at
www.eugenestandard.org
III. 4 bonus points will be awarded for tenderers that offer efficiency improvement
measures/management to the contracting authority 42
IV. 2 bonus points will be awarded if the supplied hydro meets the criteria outlined in
the Eugene Standard Technical Document, paragraphs 2.2 – 2.3, available at
www.eugenestandard.org
40
If no new plant is brought into operation within two years from the start of the
contract period the tenderer will incur a penalty.
41
The exact evaluation scheme used will vary according to the model preferred by the tendering
authority, but should include a preference for suppliers meeting the criteria outlined here. A
possible model is offered here.
42
In accordance with the “Directive on energy end-use efficiency and energy services” that
includes a supply-side obligation for energy distributors and retailers to offer efficiency
improvement measures to their customers. The EC Directive was adopted in December 2005 and is
now undergoing the jurist/linguist process.
45