Supplies and packaging

Criteria

This includes supplies with the following characteristics, where applicable in material or substance type:

• Reusable, repairable
• Long-lasting (e.g., quality-made, manufacturer’s expected lifespan, length of warranty)
• Containing minimal to no hazardous materials (e.g., environmentally responsible cleaning products, formaldehyde-free adhesives, low VOC coatings, etc.)
• Containing post-consumer (PCR) or post-industrial (PIR) recycled content (additional points will be awarded for PCR over PIR, and for 50% or greater percentage recycled content)
• Designed for end-of-life management (use of readily recyclable materials)
• Involving reduced or recycled packaging (e.g. recycled paper) and certified by environmental standards or certifications, such as environmental product declarations (EPDs), where applicable. For example, where the embodied carbon content of a material is available, this should be disclosed.

Sample RFx question

• Describe the primary supplies (materials and/or substances) proposed for use in the work, and for each, list any associated environmental attributes. Include material or substance specification(s) and proof of any environmental standards or certifications (i.e. copy of certificate or URL to online certificate).

Note: Check with your Ministry Procurement Specialist regarding certification requirements. There are recognized environmental certifications (e.g., EcoLogo, Green Seal, Cradle to Cradle) that support the proponent’s practices with regards to any of the attributes listed above.