The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed updates to its Recommendations of Specifications, Standards, and Ecolabels for Federal Purchasing, aimed at guiding federal buyers toward more sustainable and climate-friendly products. These recommendations help federal agencies leverage private sector ecolabels and standards to support environmentally preferable purchasing decisions.
For the first time in nearly a decade, the EPA has conducted a comprehensive review of these standards. The proposed changes focus on identifying products that conserve resources, use safer chemicals, and reduce pollutants such as PFAS and single-use plastics. The updates aim to reduce climate impacts, save taxpayer money, and prevent pollution.
Key Updates:
- New Product Categories: The EPA proposes adding ecolabels for healthcare, laboratories, and clothing/uniforms.
- Expanded Food Service Ware Standards: Three new standards will cover reusable, compostable, and recyclable products.
- Removal of Ecolabels: Seven standards may be removed due to failure to meet updated criteria, discontinuation, or changes in regulations.
These updates will offer clearer guidance for federal purchasers, particularly in categories like food service ware, encouraging a broader selection of environmentally friendly products. With over $700 billion in federal procurement spending last year, this initiative is seen as a key driver of sustainability.
The EPA is accepting public comments on the updates for 30 days via Regulations.gov, allowing buyers, manufacturers, and stakeholders to provide input before the final changes are implemented.
By simplifying the procurement of sustainable products, the EPA is advancing the Biden-Harris Administration’s sustainability agenda and promoting greener supply chains.