When should projects implement a sustainable purchasing policy?

Implementing a sustainable purchasing policy prior to the performance period is crucial for ensuring that sustainable practices and products are incorporated from the outset of a project’s lifecycle. This proactive approach allows project teams to establish clear guidelines and criteria for the procurement of goods and services that align with sustainability goals. By setting these policies early on, organizations can streamline their purchasing decisions, foster a culture of sustainability, and ensure compliance with certification requirements right from the start.

Establishing this policy in advance also provides the necessary groundwork for educating staff and suppliers about sustainability standards, which can lead to more effective and responsible purchasing decisions. This preparation enables the project to have a significant positive impact on its operational practices and reinforces the commitment to sustainability throughout the performance period and beyond.

While other phases like the design phase or after the performance period may incorporate sustainable practices, they lack the proactive framework and early momentum that a policy established before the performance period can bring.