Buying sustainable goods

Introduction

Buying sustainably means considering what products are made of, where they have come from and who made them. It should also include considering whether a purchase is actually necessary, or whether you could obtain the same resource in a different way, for example from recycled goods and materials.

The benefits of sustainable buying can include gaining a competitive edge, cost savings, enhanced public image, tax breaks, eligibility for loans and the potential to add green claims to your products.

Knowing about your supply chain and the goods you buy will assist you when preparing for tenders and contracts, particularly when selling to marketplaces such as the public sector which are more aware of sustainability issues.

This guide explains how to source sustainably, including how to identify more sustainable products and services and how to identify and use sustainable suppliers.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• The benefits of buying sustainable goods
• Assess what goods you need
• How to make your buying more sustainable
• Select suppliers of sustainable goods
• Buying sustainable goods from overseas
• Review your sustainable buying practices

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