Australia’s only Local Government green purchasing program has doubled the amount spent on recycled goods in one year. Through the Municipal Association of Victoria’s ECO-Buy program, Victorian Local Governments and waste management groups spent a record $33 million on green products during 2002–03, doubling the previous high of $15.3 million set in the preceding financial year.
Speaking at the ECO-Buy Awards for Excellence, MAV President, Councillor Brad Matheson said it was a remarkable effort by the 50 Councils and 14 waste management groups that comprise the group.
“The annual awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of Victorian Local Government in purchasing of recycled, greenhouse friendly, water saving and low toxic products,” he said.
Awards for Excellence went to Whitehorse City Council for the highest amount spent ($2.8 million) on recycled construction and demolition products. Loddon Shire Council was awarded for the highest amount spent on green products with $43.23 per capita. Banyule City Council received an award for excellence for implementing a green purchasing training for all staff and promoting the ‘buy green’ message throughout the organisation.
For incorporating tracking of green purchasing into its electronic purchasing system and developing monthly reports so all departments can monitor progress, Bass Coast Shire Council was honoured. Also awarded was Darebin City Council for its Reservoir Civic Centre, which uses recycled construction materials, water saving and energy efficient products extensively throughout the building.
Councillor Matheson said the launch of ECO-Find – an online product database and ECO-Guide – a comprehensive green purchasing manual, will provide the tools to assist other councils and organisations in implementing similar initiatives.
“No other public or private sector in Australia can boast such a comprehensive green purchasing program as ECO-Buy,” Councillor Matheson said.
For further information visit www.mav.asn.au/ecobuy or telephone Adrienne Stephens, ECO-Buy Executive Officer, on 0408 687 110.
