How are the standards set?

Government Buying Standards are based on expert input from a range of sources. Specifications are extensively reviewed with the support of market research and analysis, to establish appropriate criteria for each listed product which will take long term costs effectiveness and market capacity into account .

The standards identify some of the key sustainability issues in procuring particular products – from the materials used in manufacture and operation to how they will be disposed of at the end of their use.

The standards are becoming more ambitious and increasingly they indicate (particularly through best practice and class leader standards) where future improvements can be made and Government can encourage innovation in the market.

Standards are developed in close collaboration with Cross-Government steering  groups who agree drafts, which are then published for  stakeholder review accompanied by a partial assessment of the impact of the proposed standards. At this point suppliers and procurers are able to comment on the data, logic and assumptions made in developing the proposed standard.

If you would like to register an interest in joining the steering   groups, or ensure you are informed of consultations, register your interest.

A full cost/benefit impact assessment is then carried out, analysing costs, benefits and market capacity.

For the larger or higher risk product groups the process ends with approval from the Defra minister before the new standards are launched.

Setting Government Buying Standards

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Why are these products covered?

The products currently covered by Government Buying Standards were chosen for their environmental / financial impact, scope for environmental improvement and political or example-setting function. These product standards are updated in line with technological developments and new legislation.

See also

• Greenticks catalogue provided by Buying Solutions: find suppliers that have certified their products as meeting Government Buying Standards