Govt failing on environmental targets

Wednesday, 29 April 2009 12:00 AM

By Jonathan Moore

At least a third of government departments are failing to meet targets on sustainable procurement, a report revealed today.

In 2005 the government set targets to be recognised as an EU leader in sustainable procurement by the end of 2009 but a report by the National Audit Office (NAO) has shown eight out of 22 departments are only at stage one of five in their task.

In fact only one department, the NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency, has managed to achieve the target so far with the Department of Work and Pensions close to achieving a similar level according to self-assessments provided for the year 2007/08.

"The government has certainly made very poor progress," Edward Leigh, chairman of the public accounts committee, said.

"The NAO examined the five biggest spending organizations but concluded that only one body. was practising sustainable procurement across its business, with the DWP not far behind.

"The other three have a lot of catching up to do if they are to hit the 2009 deadline.

Government can do much more to buy goods and services that are not only good for the environment but also save the taxpayer money."

Head of the NAO Tim Burr said it was important for the government to minimise environmental impact in its procurement practices.

He said: "In 2008 progress was made by departments, but only some are on target to be practising sustainable procurement across their business by the end of this year.

"Procurement decisions need to be supported by a more thorough understanding of environmental benefits and costs, so that departments can show that their procurement meets the twin requirements of sustainability and value for money."

Of the five major departments the Ministry of Justice fared the worst, attaining a level one in all areas except engaging with suppliers.

Tags:
• domestic policy
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• environment
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• environment and rural affairs