PURCHASING AND PROCUREMENT
One of the major overheads an organisation faces is purchasing items and procuring services for the workplace such as; stationery, ICT, furniture, cleaning products and financial and HR services. Many organisations are reluctant to look at their current purchasing and procurement decisions for many reasons; existing relationship with current supplier, negotiated a good deal, 'its always been done this way', or tied into a contract.
However, to operate as a sustainable organisation you must recognise that the Earth's resources are finite and that all purchasing has an impact, and aim to promote purchasing and procurement decisions that support more sustainable options.

Good Business Sense

It also makes good business sense. The 'triple crunch' of the financial, environmental and energy crisis is sending a message to organisations; 'business as usual' is no longer an option. Resource efficiency and sustainable procurement is becoming an everyday necessity, saving you money and promoting your 'green' credentials to secure commissions and funding.

Does it cost more money to be sustainable?

Sometimes yes it does cost more in the first instance, although in the long run choosing sustainable products and services is often a sound financial decision. This is because common characteristics of more sustainable products include:

• Energy and water efficiency are built into the product ie; 'A' rated appliances, saving you money in the amount of energy consumed to run the product
• Cheap products don't tend to last long, investing in a product of quality will yield returns in the long run because it wont need replacing as quickly
• Reduced packaging and waste, therefore reducing the amount of waste and recycling you pay to have collected

These benefits will decrease your running costs, offsetting any initial purchase costs and hopefully result in overall financial savings.

How can MERCi help your organisation?

• Sustainability benchmarking of your organisation
• Directory of sustainable goods and service providers in Greater Manchester
• Resources and tool-kits
• Ideas on how to involve your staff, volunteers, board, service users and customers
• Tailored training and workshops