Sustainable procurement

GIZ procures goods and services to the highest sustainability criteria.

The guiding principle of sustainability is both an obligation for GIZ and the basis of its work and is also reflected in how it conducts its business. As a federal enterprise and a public contracting authority, GIZ wants to act as a role model and thereby reinforce its credibility. Sustainable procurement is, therefore, part of GIZ’s Sustainability Programme, with the aim of ensuring that all materials, equipment and services are procured to the highest sustainability standards.

These criteria are used in tenders and later form part of contracts. In addition to criteria for products and services, GIZ also considers sustainability when selecting service providers and suppliers. Corporate environmental management, fair working conditions and social engagement are particularly important to the company in this context.

Biodiversity in sustainable procurement

The environmental impact of products is taken into account in the procurement process, and environmental sustainability is ensured by means of appropriate criteria. The biodiversity requirements of international standards, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) are particularly important in procuring or conducting tenders for timber products. GIZ’s catering provision and company restaurants, too, are driving this issue forward on an ongoing basis, for example by prioritising agrobiodiversity.

You can find further information here.