EcoProcura is a European conference aimed at the promotion of sustainable procurement organised ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability.

More than €1 trillion is spent by European public authorities each year. Participants at the conference in Barcelona recognised the immense power of public procurers in bringing about huge environmental, social and economic improvements through their purchasing actions – locally and globally.

Over 60 million tonnes of greenhouse gas reductions alone could be achieved by European public authorities buying green electricity. Other major improvements could be made through public authorities buying energy efficient computers, green buildings, non-toxic cleaning products, organic food, low-emission buses, and helping to move the market towards more sustainable products and services. Ensuring that high labour standards are met by public contractors, or buying Fair Trade products are examples of how to drive social improvements through procurement.

Buying sustainably does not necessarily mean higher costs. Savings can be made in usage and disposal costs by buying environmentally friendly products. The possibilities of joint procurement in driving prices down were also highlighted at the conference. Top industry representatives also sent a clear signal to the conference – “if you demand it, we will supply it, at a good price”.