PUBLIC PROCUREMENT NEWS

  

News

29 May 2013

First Europe-wide award scheme recognising ethical cotton procurement established

European public bodies who follow exemplary procedures in procuring cotton can apply for the new European Fair Cotton Procurement Awards, an initiative which recognises and rewards excellence in the sourcing of Fair Trade cotton and responsible purchasing within the cotton supply chain. The awards are organised under the auspices of the project “Cotton on to Fairtrade procurement”, which seeks to increase public awareness and support for Fairtrade, and to encourage the purchase of Fairtrade cotton.

The awards showcase organisations’ commitment to Fair Trade cotton and responsible procurement, and can help to improve their reputation as ethical procurement leaders at European level. Participants will also have the opportunity to exchange best practice case studies. All levels of local authorities, public bodies and higher education establishments that are subject to the EU public procurement rules are eligible to apply, however a national award scheme must be organised in the organisation’s country of residence.

So far France and the United Kingdom have put in place a national award scheme. The Award criteria cover organisational policy and sustainable sourcing, procurement practice and ethical standards, and performance in procuring Fair Trade cotton products. The call for applications will open in June 2013 and the prize winners will be awarded during an official ceremony that will take place in April 2014 in Brussels (Belgium).

For more information, click here.