The document provides information on responsible purchasing practices and tools. It highlights the importance of green and sustainable purchasing, with examples of cities and organizations implementing fair trade and sweat-free policies. The document also emphasizes the need for transparent and independent product verification, as well as the use of cooperative contracts to reduce costs. It mentions the availability of calculators to evaluate the benefits of responsible purchasing, such as energy savings and waste reduction. The document also discusses the EPEAT program, which evaluates electronic products based on environmental criteria. It provides a list of responsible purchasing guides for various product categories, including bottled water, cleaners, computers, and tires.
Additionally, the document includes case studies on the benefits of implementing green cleaning practices, using EPEAT registered machines, greener vehicle fleets, and energy-efficient lighting. It highlights the cost savings and environmental benefits of using remanufactured products instead of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). According to the document, remanufactured products cost 30-60% less than OEMs, making them a more affordable and sustainable option.
Overall, the document aims to promote responsible purchasing practices and provide guidance for organizations looking to implement such practices, including the use of remanufactured products as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to OEMs.