Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP)

From copy paper to cleaners, automotive fluids to printing services, every product purchased, and even the way you travel, can have an impact on human health and the environment. To reduce the quantity and toxicity of waste in California, State law requires State agencies and other public entities to purchase recycled, repairable, and durable goods. Here's what you can do:

• Consult the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Best Practices Manual for guidance on over 40 product categories.
• Use the Green Guide-a toolkit that assists local jurisdictions and state agencies with purchasing recycled-content products and other environmentally preferable products.
• Check the Department of General Services Guide for Sustainable Purchasing with information on state contracts. For some products there is information about buying green.
• Visit the Responsible Purchasing Network (RPN) website for access to product-specific buying guides, sample specifications, and hosts training invents. RPN is now based in California.
• Incorporate waste prevention into the way you live and work.
• Buy less hazardous products to reduce regulatory liability, improve workers' safety, and lower disposal costs.
• Construct, design, and maintain buildings with energy-efficient and water conserving products that can save money.
• Select products that are reusable, refillable, and more durable or repairable. This creates less waste and is more cost-effective in the long run than disposable or single-use products.
• Buy recycled products. Close the loop to keep our home and workplace recycling programs going and to conserve our natural resources.
• Try to reduce your environmental impact when traveling.