Green procurement is the purchase of products and services that have a lesser impact on the environment over their lifecycle compared to competing products or services serving the same purpose. This practice can be effectively used by festivals to reduce their environmental impact. Here are some ways they can employ green procurement:
- Sustainable Materials: Use sustainable materials for building festival infrastructures like stages, stalls, and seating. This includes materials that are recyclable, made from renewable resources, or have a lower environmental impact in their production and disposal.
- Authorative Source: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has resources on sustainable materials management: EPA – Sustainable Materials Management
- Eco-friendly Products: Choose products that are eco-friendly. For example, use biodegradable plates and cups at food stalls or recycled toilet paper in restrooms.
- Authorative Source: Green Seal, a non-profit environmental standard development and certification organization, offers a catalog of certified products: Green Seal – Certified Products and Services
- Local Sourcing: Source locally wherever possible to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. This could be local food suppliers, local artists, or local service providers.
- Authorative Source: The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations discusses the benefits of local food systems: FAO – Local and sustainable food
- Green Energy Suppliers: Choose energy suppliers who generate power from renewable sources.
- Authorative Source: The U.S. Department of Energy provides information on green power: Department of Energy – Buying Green Power
- Sustainable Merchandise: If the festival sells merchandise, make sure it’s made sustainably. This could be t-shirts made from organic cotton, reusable water bottles, or posters made from recycled paper.
- Authorative Source: Fairtrade International explains the benefits of Fairtrade products: Fairtrade International – Why Fairtrade
- Green Vendors: Choose vendors and contractors who are committed to sustainability. Ask about their environmental policies and practices.
- Authorative Source: The Sustainable Purchasing Leadership Council offers guidance on how to engage suppliers in sustainability: Sustainable Purchasing Leadership Council – Engaging Suppliers
By employing these strategies, festivals can help promote sustainability and reduce their environmental impact. Furthermore, they can set an example for attendees and other businesses, promoting a wider culture of sustainability.
