Criteria and samples

Environmental impact criteria are optional and add value to the procurement, in addition to standards or certifications that are required as part of the technical/performance specifications of the good and/or service being purchased.

• Environmental impact criteria are not mandatory evaluation criteria in an RFx
• Environmental impact criteria need to be included in an RFx if they are to be evaluated as part of the scoring process
• It is recommended that no more than 10% of the total points be available for environmental impact criteria in a RFx, to ensure that quality and price remain the most important criteria. If social impact criteria are also applied in the same procurement, purchasers should adjust points to ensure that the combined points for social impact and environmental impact criteria do not exceed 10% of the total points for any given procurement. 

Note: You will need to contact Legal Services Branch if your point value is higher than 10%.

Example of evaluation criteria

Does your organization have a plan for increasing the use of renewable energy? Have you taken actions on and/or are you tracking and measuring the increased use of renewable energy? If yes, please describe your plan, actions taken, and/or evidence of measurement in the form of data or a report.

Greenwashing

If a proponent claims that their good or service is friendly to the environment or is sustainable, such claims should be explained, based in evidence, and verifiable. Evaluators should examine these claims to reduce the risk of misrepresentation, misstatement, and false or misleading practices. For more information, see the United Nations Climate Action article on greenwashing.

Sample evaluation criteria and RFx questions

The following pages include sample evaluation criteria and questions that B.C. government buyers should consider in their procurement processes, where appropriate and applicable. These criteria, when applied effectively in procurement, may also support achievement of other goals and/or requirements, including B.C.’s Carbon Neutral Government (CNG) program, where government seeks to reduce GHG emissions from buildings, fleet vehicles, paper consumption, and business travel.

The language included in these samples can be included in an RFx document, as applicable. Edit the language as needed to suit the specific RFx.

Note: Since criteria is written to address most generic procurement requirements, some may not apply. Review all criteria and use only those that are relevant to the specific RFx. If assistance is required to determine if it is relevant, please contact a ministry procurement specialist.

Environmentally responsible standards, specifications, and certifications are expected to change over time. The Province of British Columbia makes no endorsement, warranty, or representation of any kind with respect to any environmental specifications or eco-labels provided by third parties that may be referenced on this or any associated webpage.

Samples:

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