Last week the South Australian government launched its new Sustainable Procurement Policy to support the government’s infrastructure and transport

Last week the South Australian government launched its new Sustainable Procurement Policy to support the government’s infrastructure and transport programs to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

The policy recognises the power of government procurement to support suppliers who offer low carbon products to help create a market for these products and “Foster the growth of climate-smart businesses in South Australia”.

Speakers included MECLA member, Department of Infrastructure and Transport representative, Jen Slocombe, who stepped us through the government’s policies and foreshadowed the possibility of the sustainable procurement requirement.

The government representatives made it clear they want to prioritise ensuring the development of these industries tackle important social licence issues in SA. Given how important traceability and verification on all aspects of the supply chain will be, any claims associated with being green are going to need independent verification.

Finally, we met with Ian Overton, the chief executive officer of Green Industries SA, and were heartened to hear that the state government is looking to make South Australia “Smart, sustainable, equitable”.

  • 𝚝𝚛𝚔English
    3·
    10 months ago

    I feel the push towards sustainability is definitely gaining momentum. Not thanks to conservative governments (read: Liberal, Nationals) of course. Mostly thanks to the EU dragging the rest of the world towards action.

    I noticed a few private companies starting to throw it around - like RS Components for example (https://au.rs-online.com/web/content/m/better-world). I was chasing up some bits and pieces and started noticing the green leaf logo around the place. You can now filter by “Better World” and that has already influenced my decision on items to buy. When you have a few products that meet your requirements but only one has the “Better World” endorsement it makes the decision so easy. Cost is still a factor, but my last order cost me a premium of somewhere between 5% and 10% extra which is an amount I’m willing to pony up.

    Getting Governments on board is a huge deal. They pay very well, so there’s a big financial incentive for suppliers to meet their requirements to get a lick of that delicious Government money lolly.