Sustainable Procurement in UNFPA

Becoming more sustainable, or "going green", is a priority at UNFPA. With its significant purchasing power and large number of partners, the organization is committed to integrating environmental sustainability into its procurement practices.

In 2013, UNFPA launched its Green Procurement Strategy. Its main objective is to reduce the environmental impact of the UNFPA supply chain through more collaboration with suppliers. Seven focus areas were identified: energy consumption, water management, waste management, recycling, materials/resources, transportation, and chemical substitution.

Two years on, we can be proud of the progress we have made. Carbon dioxide emissions have been reduced by over 7,700 metric tons, 11.8 million kg per month of solid waste has been saved, and over half of our shipping boxes and materials are now made from recycled products.

UNFPA infographic for more details.

UNFPA suppliers have also seen significant cost savings, proving that going green is not only possible, but that it is also incredibly beneficial to an organization's bottom line.