UNITED STATES 

NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION 

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20555-0001 

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) 

Affirmative Procurement Program 

Green Purchasing Plan (GPP) 

Contains Federal Requirements and Guidance for 

Purchasing Green Products and Services at the NRC 

Issued by 

Acquisition Management Division 

Office of Administration 

Revised: September 2015 

[Original Issuance Date: September 2012]
i 

FOREWORD 

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC’s) Green Purchasing Plan (GPP) serves as 

the basic framework to support the agency’s efforts to procure goods and services that are safe 

and healthy for the public and the environment. 

To properly and fully execute this GPP, employees must be familiar with its contents and 

requirements, understand its relationship to their jobs and roles, be able to identify and evaluate 

the green contents and aspects of products and services, track performance, and inform 

contractors about their environmental responsibilities under the terms and conditions of their 

Federal awards. 

The NRC complies with Federal laws, statutes, Executive Orders (EOs), Federal regulations, 

OMB policy directives and NRC policies and procedures when purchasing products and 

services, to the maximum extent possible. This GPP applies to: (1) all purchases of products 

and services where environmental requirements are applicable, (2) procurements of any dollar 

value, including purchase card transactions, (3) NRC contractors with Federal awards, and 

(4) Federal funds to State and local governments, including block grants. While many of the 

requirements referenced in this GPP are specifically geared towards contracts and contractors, 

the NRC nonetheless encourages grantees and recipients with Federal funds to strategically 

incorporate sustainable environmental practices into their normal business operations and 

practices. Such efforts will serve to further promote and enhance the effectiveness of federally 

sponsored sustainable programs and initiatives. Green purchasing requirements may be 

included in grant awards, as appropriate, either integrated into program descriptions or as 

special grant provisions, especially in circumstances when grant outcomes or results have the 

potential of affecting public health or the environment. 

The NRC, through good environmental stewardship, helps to protect the health and safety of the 

public and the environment through responsible and sound business decisions to conserve 

valuable resources and adhere to Federal requirements. “Environmental stewardship” is a term 

used to describe responsibility for environmental quality shared by those whose attitudes, 

decisions, and actions affect the environment. Good stewardship can help create a more 

sustainable future for public health and the environment. The Environmental Stewardship 

Resource Guide is a reference tool developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

designed to help Federal employees make more informed business decisions and adopt 

practices that benefit the environment. Making environmental stewardship a choice in one’s 

everyday life helps preserve the environment, meets Federal requirements, and promotes good 

public health.

Each NRC employee in effect serves as an environmental steward in some capacity, whether at 

work or in the community. The actions of NRC employees contribute to the overall health of 

employees and the general public, while influencing the overall quality of the environment. 

Through participation in various conservation efforts and adherence to Federal sustainable 

program purchasing requirements, NRC employees can make valuable contributions to improve 

the safety and well-being of the public and the environment through awareness and thoughtful 

buying decisions. 

Cynthia Carpenter, Director 

Office of Administration (ADM)
ii 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC’s) Green Purchasing Plan (GPP) has been 

developed to ensure that green products and services are procured to the maximum extent 

possible and fulfill the applicable affirmative procurement requirements of: Executive Order (EO) 

13693, "Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next Decade"; Section 6002 of the Resource 

Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976; Section 104 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005; Section 

9002 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002; Section 612 of the Clean Air Act

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 23; and direction from the White House Council on 

Environmental Quality, Office of the Federal Environmental Executive.

This GPP provides guidelines and suggestions for purchasing: (1) U.S. Environmental 

Protection Agency (EPA)-designated recycled content products (i.e., EPA's "Comprehensive 

Procurement Guidelines"), (2) Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool registered 

products), (3) EnergyStar® and Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP)-designated 

efficient products and appliances, (4) biobased products designated by the U.S. Department of 

Agriculture (USDA) (i.e., USDA Biopreferred® program), (5) environmentally preferable 

products, (6) WaterSense and other water-efficient products, (7) products containing non- or 

lower-ozone-depleting substances – Significant New Alternatives Policy, and (8) products 

containing non- or low-toxic or hazardous constituents (e.g., non-volatile organic compounds

paint). 

An integral part of the successful implementation of the NRC’s GPP centers on a sustained 

commitment on the part of program offices, contracting officers’ representatives (COR), contract 

specialists, and contracting officers to ensure that green requirements (including percentage 

requirements for recycled content and biobased material) are included in statements of work 

(SOW), solicitation instructions, and evaluation criteria, as appropriate. The degree to which 

agency procurements contain green attributes or requirements should closely resemble and 

correspond with the weight afforded them during agency proposal evaluations. Where NRC 

procurements contain few green requirements, environmental attributes may be integrated with 

larger technical evaluation criteria and play a lesser role in award decisions. Conversely, 

requirements for construction, landscaping, or janitorial services, for instance, or purchases of 

designated products or items listed by USDA or EPA—which tend to have a greater impact on 

public health and the environment—would be expected to have greater emphasis in agency 

solicitations and evaluations. The solicitation’s SOW, green product requirements, instructions, 

provisions, criteria, and contract clauses are used by the NRC to effectively convey to vendors 

the importance of buying safe environmental products and services. As part of contract 

administration responsibilities, the COR generally is responsible for inspecting contract 

deliverables and services to ensure that they conform with green product and service 

requirements specified in the contract or order before accepting them. 

Please review The Environmental Stewardship Resource Guide for a brief overview of general 

and specific roles by Federal employees and good environmental stewardship practices. 
 

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CONTENTS 

I. Purpose, Authority, and Applicability ................................................................................. 1 

A. Purpose ................................................................................................................. 1 

B. Authority ................................................................................................................ 2

C. Applicability ........................................................................................................... 7 

II. Federal Environmental Programs ..................................................................................... 8 

A. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-Designated Recycled Content 

Products ................................................................................................................ 9 

B. Energy-Efficient Products: Energy Star®, Federal Energy Management 

Program (FEMP)-Designated Energy-Efficient Products and Appliances, 

and Low Standby Power Products ...................................................................... 13 

C. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Biobased Products .............................. 17 

D. Environmentally Preferable Products and Services ............................................ 20 

E. Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool-Registered 

Products .............................................................................................................. 24 

F. WaterSense or Other Water Efficient Products ................................................... 27 

G. Products Containing Non- or Lower-Ozone-Depleting Substances - 

Significant New Alternatives Policy ..................................................................... 29 

H. Products Containing Non- or Low-Toxic or Hazardous Constituents .................. 31 

I. Alternative Fuel Vehicles and Alternative Fuels .................................................. 34 

III. Roles and Responsibilities ............................................................................................... 39 

 A. Federal Chief Sustainability Officer ..................................................................... 39 

B. Agency Chief Sustainability Officer ..................................................................... 39 

C. Regional Administrators ...................................................................................... 41 

D. Director, Division of Administrative Services ....................................................... 41 

E. Director, Acquisition Management Division ......................................................... 42 

F. Director, Division of Facilities and Security ......................................................... 42 

G. Chief, Administrative Services ............................................................................. 43 

H. Chief, Facilities Management Branch .................................................................. 43 

I. Agency Program Manager for Greening Initiatives .............................................. 43 

J. Agency Recycling Coordinator ............................................................................ 44 

K. Facility Recycling Coordinators ........................................................................... 44 

L. Environmental Point of Contact ........................................................................... 44 

M. Contracting Officers and Contract Specialists ..................................................... 44 

N. Program Offices .................................................................................................. 45 

O. Government Purchase Card Program Manager .................................................. 46 

P. Purchase Card Holders ....................................................................................... 47 

Q. Contractors .......................................................................................................... 47 

R. State and Local Agencies .................................................................................... 47 

IV. Affirmative Procurement Plan (APP) ................................................................................ 48 

 A. Objectives ............................................................................................................. 48

 B. Policy .................................................................................................................. 48 

C. Hazardous Materials Prohibitions, Limitations, and Requirements ...................... 49 

 1. Prohibitions on EPA Priority Chemicals .................................................... 49 

 2. Purchase Alternatives to Hazardous Chemicals and Ozone-Depleting 

 Substances .............................................................................................. 49 

3. Hazardous Material Identification and Material Safety Data 
 

iv 

Substances ............................................................................................... 50 

 D. Implementation of the NRC’s Green Purchasing Plan (GPP) ............................. 50 

 1. Implementation of the GPP—Includes all Parties in the Acquisition 

 Process ..................................................................................................... 50 

 2. Acquisition Planning and Specifications ................................................... 50 

 3. Identifying Potential Qualified Vendors ..................................................... 52 

 4. Source Selection and Evaluations ............................................................ 52 

 5. Balancing Environmental Considerations with Performance, 

 Availability, and Cost (Life-Cycle Cost Analysis) ..................................... 53 

E. Justifications.... .................................................................................................... 53 

F. Contractors ........................................................................................................... 54 

V. Promotion Program .......................................................................................................... 55 

VI. Training ............................................................................................................................ 55 

VII. Procedures for Annual Review and Monitoring.................................................................55 

A. Monitoring ............................................................................................................. 55 

B. Reports ................................................................................................................. 55

VIII. Annual Recognition Programs ......................................................................................... 56 

A. GreenGov Presidential Awards Program ............................................................. 56 

B. Other Environmental Awards................................................................................ 56 

C. Non-Monetary NRC Environmental Stewardship Awards .................................... 56 

IX. Waste Prevention and Recycling Programs ..................................................................... 56 

A Waste Prevention ................................................................................................. 56 

B. Recycling Programs ............................................................................................. 57 

X. Conservation Measures and “Buying Green” .................................................................. 57 

A. Energy Efficiency in Lease Provisions.................................................................. 57 

B. Distributed Generation and Electrical Load Reduction Measures ........................ 57 

APPENDICES

Appendix A Justification for Purchasing Other than USDA-Designated Biobased 

 Products ........................................................................................................ 59 

Appendix B Justification for Purchasing Other than EPA-Designated Recycled 

Content Products ........................................................................................... 60 

Appendix C Justification for Purchasing Other Than EnergyStar® or Federal Energy 

Management Program (FEMP)-Designated Energy-Efficient Products ........ 61 

Appendix D Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Green Purchasing Requirements ...... 62 

Appendix E Procedures for Vendor Estimation, Certification, and Verification ................. 65 

Appendix F Federal Sources of Recycled Content Environmentally Preferable 

Products ........................................................................................................ 66 

Appendix G Environmental Labeling and Certification Programs ..................................... 68 

Appendix H Sample Custodial Contract Green Language for USDA-Biobased 

Products ........................................................................................................ 70 

Appendix H.1 Sample Statement of Work (SOW) with Biobased Language ....................... 71 
 

v 

Appendix H.2 Sample Section L, Instructions to Offerors for Purchase of Biobased 

Products ........................................................................................................ 74 

Appendix H.2.1 Sample Sustainability Plan, Clause, and Provision ....................................... 76 

Appendix H.3 Sample Section M, Evaluation Information .................................................... 78 

Appendix H.3.1 Sample Section M, Evaluation Factors for Award for Purchase of Biobased 

Products ........................................................................................................ 80 

Appendix I Sample Green Contract Language for Construction and Electronic and 

Information Technology (EIT) Products ......................................................... 82 

Appendix J Resources ..................................................................................................... 83 

Appendix K Definitions ...................................................................................................... 89 

Appendix L Acronyms ....................................................................................................... 96 

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle 
1 

I. PURPOSE, AUTHORITY, AND APPLICABILITY

 

 A. Purpose

 

 The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC’s) Green Purchasing Plan 

(GPP) provides guidance to ensure the agency complies with the following 

regulations: 

• Executive Order (EO) 13693 was signed by President Obama on March 19, 

2015. The goal of EO 13693 is to maintain Federal leadership in sustainability 

and greenhouse gas emission reductions. 

• Section 6002 of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) of 

1976, (42 U.S.C. 6962). 

• Section 104 of the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 2005 - Procurement of 

Energy Efficient Products.

• Section 9002, “Federal Procurement of Biobased Products,” of the Farm 

Security and Rural Investment Act (FSRIA) of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 8102).

• Section 612 of the Clean Air Act (CAA). 

• Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 23.

• White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), Office of the Federal 

Environmental Executive (OFEE) memoranda. 

• Other Federal laws and regulations. 

The goal of the NRC’s GPP is to facilitate purchases that benefit human health 

and the environment while reducing the agency’s carbon footprint and reliance 

on any products or services that are less friendly to the environment. By including 

environmental considerations, standards, or evaluation criteria into the agency’s 

buying decisions, along with price, quality, performance, and availability, the 

NRC will be promoting good environmental practices that are responsible and 

that serve to benefit public health and safety, prevent and reduce pollution, 

conserve natural resources, create efficiencies, and support vendors that 

produce, sell, or promote environmentally friendly supplies, products, and 

services. 

This GPP encompasses the purchasing of: (1) products designated as having 

recycled content by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 

(2) products registered by the Electronic Product Environmental Assessment 

Tool (EPEAT®), (3) products and appliances designated as efficient by 

EnergyStar® and Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP), (4) biobased 

products designated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) (USDA 

Biopreferred® program), (5) environmentally preferable products, (6) WaterSense

and other water-efficient products, (7) Significant New Alternative Policy (SNAP) 

chemicals or other alternatives to ozone-depleting substances and high global 

warming potential hydrofluorocarbons, where feasible, as identified by SNAP, 
2 

and (8) products containing non- or low-toxic or hazardous constituents 

(e.g., non- volatile organic compound [VOC] paint). 

 B. Authority 

This GPP serves as the NRC’s broad acquisition guidance for green purchasing 

pursuant to the laws, statutes, and regulations set forth below. 

 Section 9002 of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 

• Section 9002, “Biobased Markets Program,” of the Act requires each Federal 

procuring agency to establish a procurement program, develop procurement 

specifications, and procure biobased products identified under the guidelines 

described therein. 

• The Act requires that Federal agencies give a procurement preference to 

those items that are composed of the highest percentage of biobased 

products practicable, or to comply with the regulations issued under 

Section 103 of Public Law 100 – 556 (42 USC 6914b–1). 

References: 

− Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 

− Section 9002 (“Biobased Markets Program”)

 Section 943 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (Pub. L. 109–58)

• Section 943, “Procurement of Biobased Products,” of the EPAct established: 

− requirements for Federal agencies to use of energy efficiency products, 

including EnergyStar®- and FEMP-designated products 

− requirements of the use of renewable energy, including biobased 

products 

References: 

− EPAct of 2005 

− Section 943 (“Procurement of Biobased Products”)

 Section 9002 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002

(7 USC 8102)

• Section 9002 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act (FSRIA), 

“Federal Procurement of Biobased Products,” requires each Federal agency 

to comply with the requirements of Section 9002 with respect to any purchase 

or acquisition of a procurement item in which the purchase price of the 

USDA-designated item exceeds $10,000 or when the quantity of such items 

or of functionally equivalent items purchased or acquired in the course of the 

preceding fiscal year was $10,000 or more. 

Each Federal agency that procures any items designated gives preference to 

such items composed of the highest percentage of biobased products 
3 

practicable, consistent with maintaining a satisfactory level of competition, 

considering such guidelines. An agency may decide not to procure such 

items if the agency determines that the items: 

− are not reasonably available within a reasonable period of time 

− fail to meet the performance standards set forth in the applicable 

specifications or fail to meet the reasonable performance standards of the 

procuring agencies 

− are available only at an unreasonable price 

• Note: The dollar threshold above applies to the cumulative purchases for both 

NRC Headquarters and regional offices. 

References: 

− FSRIA of 2002 

− Section 9002 (“Federal Procurement of Biobased Products”)

 Biomass Research and Development Act of 2000

The Act: 

• Defines terms such as biobased product and biomass: 

− Biobased product – An industrial product (including chemicals, materials, 

and polymers) produced from biomass, or a commercial or industrial 

product (including animal feed and electric power) derived in connection 

with the conversion of biomass to fuel. 

− Biomass – Any organic matter that is available on a renewable or 

recurring basis, including agricultural crops and trees, wood and wood 

waste and residues, plants (including aquatic plants), grasses, residues, 

fibers, and animal wastes, municipal wastes, and other waste materials. 

• Established a Biomass Research Development Board. 

• Established reporting requirements. 

References: 

− Biomass Research and Development Act of 2000

 Section 6002 of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) 

(42 USC 6962), as amended

• Section 6002 of RCRA requires procuring agencies to implement an 

affirmative procurement plan consisting of four elements: 

− a recovered materials preference program 

− a promotion program 
4 

− procedures for estimation, certification, and verification 

− procedures for annual review and monitoring of the effectiveness of the 

procurement program 

 

• RCRA requires all “procuring agencies” to purchase items designated in the 

Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines (CPG) when buying $10,000 worth 

of an item. Procuring agencies include State and local government recipients 

of Federal funding. 

Applicable to: 

− All Federal agencies, which as procuring agencies are subject to Section 

6002, whether using appropriated funds or not, while purchasing 

designated items. 

− Any State agency or local government using appropriated funds for 

procurement of designated items (including block grants). 

− State and local institutions of higher education, hospitals, and nonprofit 

organizations that receive direct Federal funds, which should give 

preference to the purchase of recycled products. 

Not applicable to: 

− Private recipients of Federal funds (e.g., nonprofit organizations or 

individual recipients of Farm Home Administration loans or other Federal 

loans, grants, or funds under a cooperative agreement). These are not

considered procuring agencies and, therefore, are not subject to RCRA 

Section 6002. 

References: 

− Section 6002 of the RCRA 

− RCRA (full text version) 

 Section 612 of the Clean Air Act (CAA) 

• The CAA is incorporated into 42 USC 85. 

 

• Established law aimed at reducing or eliminating air pollution that endangers 

public health and welfare, including injury to agricultural crops and livestock, 

damage to and the deterioration of property, and hazards to air and ground 

transportation. This includes the reduction of emissions of VOCs affecting 

low-level ozone. 

Reference: 

− EPA CAA Web site

 
5 

 Executive Order (EO) 13693, Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next 

Decade

EO 13693 – 

• Requires Federal agencies to: 

− Promote building energy conservation, efficiency, and management. 

− Ensure that at a minimum, percentages (as stipulated in this EO) of the 

total amount of building electric energy and thermal energy shall be clean 

energy, accounted for by renewable electric energy and alternative 

energy. 

− Ensure that the percentage of the total amount of building electric energy 

consumed by the agency that is renewable electric energy meets 

percentages in this EO. 

− Include in the renewable electric energy portion of the clean energy target 

established in subsection (b) of this section renewable electric energy as 

defined in Section 19(v) of this EO. 

− Include in the alternative energy portion of the clean energy target 

established in subsection (b) of this section alternative energy as defined 

in section 19(c) of this EO and associated with prescribed actions listed in 

this EO. 

− Improve agency water use efficiency and management, including 

stormwater management. 

− Improve agency fleet and vehicle efficiency and management, if the 

agency operates a fleet of at least 20 motor vehicles. 

− Improve building efficiency, performance, and management. 

− Promote sustainable acquisition and procurement by ensuring that each 

of the following environmental performance and sustainability factors are 

included to the maximum extent practicable for all applicable 

procurements in the planning, award, and execution phases of the 

acquisition. 

− Advance waste prevention and pollution prevention. 

− Implement performance contracts for Federal buildings. 

− Promote electronics stewardship by establishing, measuring, and 

reporting. 

• Revoked EOs include: 13423 and 13514. 
6 

References: 

− EO 13693

− FedCenter.gov

 EPA’s CPG Program

• The CPG program is part of EPA’s continuing effort to promote the use of 

materials recovered from solid waste to be used repeatedly in the 

manufacture of new recycled-content products. 

Reference: 

− EPA CPG Web site

 Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP), Policy Letter 92-4

• OFPP Policy Letter 92-4 provided Federal agencies policies for the 

acquisition and use of environmentally sound, energy-efficient products and 

services. 

Reference: 

− OFPP Policy Letters

FAR Part 23

• FAR Part 23 includes acquisition regulations that support the Government’s 

program for protecting and improving the quality of the environment; fostering 

markets for sustainable technologies, materials, products, and services, and 

encouraging the safe operation of vehicles. 

• EO 13693 requires: 

− That all eligible contract actions, including task and delivery orders, 

require the supply or use of products and services that are 

energy-efficient (EnergyStar® or FEMP-designated products), water 

efficient, biobased, environmentally preferable (excluding EPEAT®-

registered products), non-ozone-depleting, contain recycled content, or 

are non- or low-toxic alternatives. 

− The required products in the contract actions for services include 

products that are: 

o Delivered to the Government during performance; 

o Acquired by the contractor for use in performing services at a 

federally controlled facility; or 

o Furnished by the contractor for use by the Government. 

− The required products in the contract actions must meet agency 

performance requirements. 
7 

References: 

− FAR Part 23

− FedCenter.gov

C. Applicability

 

This GPP applies to: (1) all purchases of products and services in which 

environmental requirements are applicable, including USDA and EPA-designated 

products and items; (2) procurements of any dollar value, including purchase 

card transactions, (3) NRC contractors with Federal awards, and (4) Federal 

funds to State and local governments, including block grants. 

While many of the requirements referenced in this GPP are geared specifically 

towards contracts and contractors, the NRC nonetheless encourages grantees 

and recipients of Federal funds to incorporate strategically sustainable 

environmental practices into their normal business operations to promote and 

enhance Federal programs and projects. Also, green requirements may be 

included in grant awards, as appropriate, either integrated into program 

descriptions or as special grant provisions where grant outcomes or results affect 

public health or the environment. 

While this guidance applies to all NRC contractors, this GPP only applies to 

contractors where clauses or provisions are included in the contracts. It is the 

responsibility of the NRC contracting officers to ensure that new and existing 

contracts include GPP compliance clauses or provisions. 
8 

II. FEDERAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS

In 1997, the Federal Government adopted a rule that amended the FAR to reflect clearly 

the Government’s preference for the acquisition of environmentally sound and 

energy-efficient products and services and to establish an affirmative procurement 

program favoring items containing the maximum practicable content of recovered 

materials. The rule also implemented policies for procurement of items for which the 

EPA has designated minimum recovered material content. Since that time, a number of 

new laws have been enacted and new regulations established to bolster the 

Government’s ability to reduce harmful pollutants entering the environmental footprint 

and to conserve resources. 

Sections A though I below include major environmental programs that apply to any 

purchases made by the Federal Government. These include materials, supplies, 

products, and services. Each major program listed is further discussed in detail below. 

 

A. EPA-Designated Recycled Content Products 

B. EnergyStar®, Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP)-Designated 

Energy-Efficient Products and Appliances, and Low Standby Power 

C. USDA Biobased Products

D. Environmentally Preferable Products (EPP) and Services 

E. Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT®)-Registered 

Products 

F. WaterSense or Other Water Efficient Products 

G. Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) chemicals or other alternatives 

to ozone-depleting substances and high global warming potential 

hydrofluorocarbons, where feasible, as identified by SNAP

H. Products Containing Non- or Low-Toxic or Hazardous Constituents 

I. Alternative Fuel Vehicles and Alternative Fuels 
9 

A. EPA-Designated Recycled Content Products

Sponsoring Federal Agency: EPA 

 

• Recycled Content Products 

Description: 

Recycled content products are products made from or containing recovered 

materials. This involves replacing virgin materials with recycled materials, 

including post-consumer materials. 

Laws, Regulations, or Policies: 

Section 6002 of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) 

requires Federal agencies to procure EPA-designated products composed of 

the highest percentage of recovered materials practicable consistent with 

maintaining a satisfactory level of competition. EO 13693 (Section 3(i)(i)(A)) 

and the White House CEQ‘s Implementing Instructions require that each 

agency give preference to the purchase of recycled content products 

designated in EPA‘s CPG. 

 

The FAR provides language on the use of products containing recovered 

materials, pursuant to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976. 

FAR 23.404(b)(1) states that each agency’s Affirmative Procurement 

Program (APP) must require that 100 percent of purchases of EPA and 

USDA-designated products and items contain recovered material or biobased 

content. 

Discussion: 

The contract should specify— 

• For products containing recovered materials, that the product is 

composed of the— 

(i) Highest percent of recovered materials practicable, or 

(ii) Minimum material content standards in accordance with EPA‘s 

recovered materials advisory notices (RMANs). Contracting officers 

also may select from any of the eight major CPG product categories 

listed below for minimum standards (to be used in solicitations and 

contracts). 
10 

• A program for requiring reasonable estimates, certification, and 

verification of recovered material used in the performance of contracts. 

The recovered material content program requires pre-award certification 

that the products meet EPA recommendations. A second certification is 

required at contract completion for recovered material content, as is 

annual review and monitoring of the effectiveness of the program. 

• EPA has grouped designated CPG products into eight major categories, 

as follows: 

− construction products 

− landscaping products 

− nonpaper office products 

− paper and paper products 

− park and recreation products 

− transportation products 

− vehicular products 

− miscellaneous products 

o CPG Resources:

− The CPG program is part of EPA‘s continuing effort to promote the 

use of materials recovered from solid waste. Buying recycled-content 

products ensures that the materials collected in recycling programs 

will be used again in the manufacture of new products. The Web site 

describes the CPG program at a high level, and includes a Glossary 

and Frequent Questions file about the program and about CPG and 

RMANs. 

− RMANs – Provide purchasing guidance and recommend recovered 

and postconsumer material content levels for designated items. 

− Background – Provides regulatory information about the CPG and 

RMAN process, including the first five CPG and RMAN updates. 

− Products – Details the eight CPG product categories, including all the 

specific products available, and provides eight overview product 

resource guides and a mechanism to suggest a product. 

− Product Supplier Directory – Is an online, searchable database of 

available suppliers of products in the eight CPG categories. 

The CPG program is authorized by Congress under Section 6002 of the 

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and EO 13423. The EPA is 

required to designate products that are or can be made with recovered 

materials and to recommend practices for buying these products. Once a 

product is designated, procuring agencies are required to purchase it with 

the highest recovered material content level practicable. 
11 

References: 

− EPA’s CPG

− NRC Office of Administration’s (ADM) Recycling Program

• FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (FAR) CLAUSES OR 

PROVISIONS 

o FAR Part 23 requires agencies to purchase recycled content 

products. 

− FAR 23.403 requires competitive cost-effective purchases of 

products that meet reasonable performance requirements and are 

comprised of the highest percentage of recovered materials 

practicable. 

− FAR 23.404 requires agencies to have an APP that provides 

guidelines for purchasing items with recycled content. 

− FAR 23.405(b)(2) requires contracting officers to place a 

justification in the contract file when an acquisition of an EPAdesignated product does not meet minimum recovered material 

content by EPA. 

− FAR 23.406 requires the insertion of contract clauses about 

Recovered Material Certification FAR 52.223-4, Estimate of 

Percentage of Recovered Material Content for EPA-Designated 

Products (FAR 52.223-9), and affirmative procurement of EPADesignated Items in service and construction contracts (FAR 

52.223-17).

− FAR 23.705 requires the insertion of the Waste Reduction 

Program clause (FAR 52.223-10) in all solicitations and contracts 

for contractor operation of government-owned or governmentleased facilities, and for services at these locations. 

o FAR Parts 4, 10, 12, 13, and 36 also include recycled content item 

requirements, including: 

− FAR Subpart 4.3, which requires contractors to submit acquisitionrelated paper documents to the government on printed or copied 

double-sided recycled paper, whenever practicable. 

− FAR 10.001 and 10.002, which requires agencies to use the 

results of market research to ensure the maximum practicable use 

of recovered materials and promote energy conservation and 

efficiency. 

− FAR 12.301, which allows contracting officers to use provisions 

and clauses about the use of recycled products, when 

appropriate. 
12 

− FAR 13.201, which requires purchases made at or below the 

micropurchase threshold to comply with the RCRA. 

− FAR Subpart 36.6, which requires the statement of work for facility 

design contracts to use the maximum practicable amount of 

recycled materials. 

o FAR Part 52 includes the following applicable clauses and provisions: 

− As prescribed in FAR 23.406(c), except for the acquisition of 

commercial off-the-shelf (COTS), insert the provision at FAR 

52.223-4, “Recovered Material Certification, in solicitations that 

require the delivery of or specify the use of EPA-designated 

products.” 

− As prescribed in FAR 23.406(e), insert the clause at FAR 52.223-

17, “Affirmative Procurement of EPA-designated Items in Service 

and Construction Contracts, in service or construction solicitations 

and contracts unless the contract will not involve the use of EPAdesignated products and items.” 

 

− As prescribed in FAR 23.406(d), except for the acquisition of 

COTS, insert the clause at FAR 52.223-9, “Estimate of 

Percentage of Recovered Material Content for EPA-Designated 

Items, in solicitations and contracts over the simplified acquisition 

threshold that are for, or specify the use of, EPA-designated 

products and items containing recovered materials.” 
13 

B. EnergyStar®, Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP)-Designated 

Energy-Efficient Products and Appliances, and Low Standby Power

Sponsoring Federal Agencies: U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and EPA 

 

DOE manages the FEMP and Low Standby Power programs. The EPA and DOE 

jointly manage the EnergyStar® program. 

• EnergyStar® 

Description: 

The EnergyStar® program helps Federal purchasers save money and protect 

the environment through the use of energy-efficient products and practices. In 

1992, EPA introduced EnergyStar® as a voluntary labeling program designed 

to identify and promote energy-efficient products to reduce greenhouse gas 

emissions. The program initially labeled computers and monitors. Through 

1995, EPA expanded the label to additional office equipment products and 

residential heating and cooling equipment. In 1996, EPA partnered with DOE 

for particular product categories. The EnergyStar® label is now on major 

appliances, office equipment, lighting, home electronics, and more. EPA also 

has extended the label to cover new homes and commercial and industrial 

buildings. 

• FEMP 

Description: 

FEMP provides services, tools, and expertise to Federal agencies to help 

them achieve energy, greenhouse gas, and water goals. Federal agencies 

are required to procure energy-efficient products. FEMP produces energy 

efficiency requirements and resources to help Federal buyers comply with 

Federal requirements while saving energy and reducing costs. 
14 

• Low Standby Power 

Description: 

Some appliances or devices consume electricity when they appear to be 

turned off. This power consumption is known as standby power and occurs 

for a variety of reasons. In some cases, standby power allows a device to 

receive signals from a remote control, network, or soft keypad. In others, 

standby power is consumed because the power supply (the little black cube 

on some power cords) or some internal circuit remains connected when the 

device is turned off. FEMP defines standby power as the power consumed by 

a product when in the lowest power-consuming mode, which typically occurs 

when a product is switched to “off” or is not performing its primary purpose. 

Some organizations use standby power to refer to all low-power modes. 

FEMP does not consider standby power a mode, but rather an amount of 

power consumption that occurs when a device is in the lowest 

power-consuming mode. 

Laws, Regulations, or Policies: 

The Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) and EO 13221 (“Energy 

Efficient Standby Devices”) require Federal agencies to purchase products 

with a standby power level of 1 watt or less. For many product categories, the 

EnergyStar® program considers standby energy use. However, for the 

product categories listed below, Federal buyers must ensure that purchases 

meet both EnergyStar® and low standby power requirements. FEMP 

maintains a list of low standby power-compliant products in its Low Standby 

Power Data Center. 

EO 13693 (Section 3(i)(i)(B)) and the White House CEQ‘s Implementing 

Instructions require that each agency give preference to the purchase of 

energy and water efficient products and services, such as ENERGY STAR 

qualified and Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP)-designated 

products, identified by EPA and the Department of Energy (DOE). 

Federal laws and EOs mandate that agencies meet these efficiency 

requirements in all procurement and acquisition actions that are not 

specifically exempted by law. 

The EPAct of 2005, Section 104, requires Federal agencies to purchase 

EnergyStar®-and FEMP-designated products when procuring energyconsuming products. 

In 2007, the FAR was amended to address implementation of Section 104 of 

the EPAct of 2005. This amendment requires all Federal acquisitions of 

energy-consuming products and all contracts for energy-consuming products 

requiring EnergyStar®- or FEMP-designated products. (FAR Case 2006-008, 

Implementation of Section 104 of the EPAct of 2005) 

The Implementing Instructions state that agencies shall purchase products 

that use 1 watt of standby power or less. If FEMP has not specified a standby 

power level for a product category, agencies shall purchase products with the 
15 

lowest standby power consumption available. In addition, EO 13221 

mandates that each agency, when it purchases commercially available COTS 

products that use external standby power devices or contain an internal 

standby power function, purchase products that use no more than 1 watt in 

standby power-consuming mode. 

Discussion: 

The resources provided by FEMP are geared towards helping Federal 

agencies achieve required energy, greenhouse gas, and water goals. 

Each program area focuses on specific energy management actions to help 

Federal agencies deploy the available technologies appropriate for energy 

efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation projects. FEMP 

program areas include: 

− sustainable buildings and campuses

− operations and maintenance

− greenhouse gases

− water efficiency

− data center efficiency

− industrial facilities

− sustainable Federal fleets

References: 

− Web site to find EnergyStar® products 

− FEMP energy-efficient product categories 

− Requirements and guidance for low standby power

− CEQ's Implementing Instruction for EO 13693

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (FAR) CLAUSES OR 

PROVISIONS 

o FAR Subpart 23.2 requires agencies to purchase energy-efficient 

products in appropriate situations.

− FAR 23.203, “Energy-Efficient Products,” states that when acquiring 

energy-consuming products: (1) agencies shall purchase 

EnergyStar®- or FEMP-designated products; and (2) for products that 

consume power in a standby mode and are listed on FEMP‘s Standby 

Power Devices product listing, agencies shall purchase items that 

meet FEMP‘s standby power wattage recommendation or document 

the reason for not purchasing such items. 

− FAR 23.204, procurement exemptions, states that the head of the 

agency may make an exception if he or she determines in writing that 

no EnergyStar®- or FEMP-designated product is reasonably available 

that meets the functional requirements of the agency, or no 

EnergyStar®- or FEMP-designated product is cost effective over the 

life of the product taking energy cost savings into account. 
16 

o FAR Part 52 includes the following applicable clauses and provisions: 

− As prescribed in FAR 23.206, insert the clause at FAR 52.223-15, 

“energy efficiency in energy-consuming products” (December 2007), 

in solicitations and contracts when purchasing energy-consuming 

products. 
17 

C. USDA Biobased Products

Sponsoring Federal Agency: USDA 

• Biopreferred® Program

Description: 

The USDA is responsible for implementing the Biopreferred® program. The 

purpose of the Biopreferred® program is to promote the increased purchase 

and use of biobased products. 

Biobased products are products determined by USDA to be commercial or 

industrial products (other than food or feed) that are comprised in whole, or in 

significant part, of biological products or renewable domestic agricultural 

materials (including plant, animal, and marine materials) or forestry materials. 

Laws, Regulations, or Policies: 

− The purchasing of biobased products is required by Section 9002 of FSRIA, 

and EO 13693. Section 9002 states that each Federal agency that procures 

any items designated in such guidelines shall, in making procurement 

decisions, give preference to such items composed of the highest percentage 

of biobased products practicable, consistent with maintaining a satisfactory 

level of competition. EO 13693 (Section 3(i)(i)(C)) and CEQ’s Implementing 

Instructions require that each agency give preference to the purchase of 

biobased products designated by the USDA‘s Biopreferred® program. 

Preference for procurement of biobased products is established under the 

authority of section 9002 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 

2002, and further amended by the Food Conservation and Energy Act of 

2008 (2008 Farm Bill) and the Agricultural Act of 2014 (2014 Farm Bill). 

In 2007, the FAR was amended to require that a procurement preference be 

added to biobased products within items designated by the Secretary of 

Agriculture (USDA’s Biobased Products Preference Program). 

In 2008, USDA published three final rules in the Federal Register designating 

27 biobased products for Federal preferential procurement. The products 

include a variety of personal and facility cleaning products, additional 
18 

greases, oils, and lubricants, construction products, and other items. (See 

Federal Register – “USDA’s Designation of Biobased Items for Federal 

Procurement.”) 

FAR 23.404 states that each agency’s APP must require that 100 percent of 

purchases of USDA-designated products and items contain biobased 

content. 

Discussion: 

The contract should specify— 

• For biobased products, that the product is comprised of— 

− The highest percentage of biobased material practicable, or 

− USDA’s recommended minimum contents standards. 

The biobased program requires pre-award certification that the products 

meet USDA recommendations. An annual review and monitoring of the 

effectiveness of the program also is required. 

• The BioPreferred® Catalog includes: 

− Custodial Services 

− Films and Packaging 

− Food Services/Cafeteria 

− Grounds Maintenance 

− Intermediates 

− Minor Construction 

− Miscellaneous 

− Office Supplies 

− Operations and Maintenance 

− Personal Care and Toiletries 

− Safety Equipment 

− Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance 

References: 

− USDA’s BioPreferred program 

− USDA’s BioPreferred catalog 

− USDA’s Biopreferred product categories

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (FAR) CLAUSES OR 

PROVISIONS 

• FAR Part 23 requires agencies to purchase biobased items: 

− FAR 23.403 requires competitive cost-effective purchases of products 

that meet reasonable performance requirements and contain 

biobased content. 
19 

− FAR 23.404 requires agencies to have an APP program that provides 

guidelines for purchasing items with biobased content. 

− FAR 23.406 requires the insertion of contract clauses on the use of 

USDA-designated products. 

− FAR 23.703 requires agencies to implement cost-effective green 

contracting preference programs, employ sustainable acquisition 

strategies, and consider the use of biobased products. 

• FAR Part 52 includes the following applicable clauses and provisions: 

− As prescribed in FAR 23.406(a), insert the provision at FAR 52.223-1, 

“Recovered Material Certification,” in solicitations that require the 

delivery or specify the use of USDA-designated products. 

− As prescribed in FAR 23.406(b), insert the clause at FAR 52.223-2, 

“Affirmative Procurement of Biobased Products Under Service and 

Construction Contracts,” unless the contract will not involve the use of 

USDA-designated products. 
20 

D. Environmentally Preferable Products (EPP) and Services

Sponsoring Federal Agency: EPA 

• Environmentally Preferable Products 

Description: 

Environmentally preferable products (EPP) and services have a lesser or 

reduced negative effect on human health and the environment when 

compared with competing products or services that serve the same purpose. 

This comparison applies to raw materials, manufacturing, packaging, 

distribution, use, reuse, operation, maintenance, and disposal. EPP possess 

more than one environmentally friendly attribute. 

The EPA’s EPP program has summarized information about popular 

environmentally preferable products and services, including environmental 

attributes to look for, procurement guidance, tools, case studies, and other 

useful resources. 

 

EPA maintains a database of products and specifications defined by Federal, 

State, and local agencies, and other nations. 

Laws, Regulations, or Policies: 

− EO 13693 (Section 3(i)(ii)(iii)) and CEQ‘s Implementing Instructions

require that each agency give preference to the purchase of 

environmentally preferable products. The Implementing Instructions state 

that each agency shall purchase EPA’s EPP. 

Discussion: 

EPA’s EPP program helps the Federal Government “buy green,” and, in 

doing so, uses the Federal Government’s enormous buying power to 

stimulate market demand for green products and services. Geared first to 

help Federal purchasers, this site can help green vendors, businesses large 

and small—and consumers. The easy-to-use index can be used to: 

− Find and evaluate information about green products and services. 

− Identify Federal green buying requirements. 

− Calculate the costs and benefits of purchasing choices. 

− Manage green purchasing processes. 
21 

• Finding and Evaluating Green Products and Services: 

− buildings and construction

− carpets

− cleaning

− electronics

− fleets

− food services

− landscaping

− meetings and conferences

− office supplies

− paper

To assist in the search for applicable items, the U.S. General Services 

Administration (GSA) has developed a useful tool, Green Products 

Compilation (GPC), to facilitate the procurement of green and sustainable 

products and services. The products listed are those for which EPA, DOE, or 

USDA has issued designations or otherwise provided guidance for 

environmental or energy attributes. 

GSA’s interactive tool consolidates and organizes information from the 

Federal green purchasing programs in one place, saving users from 

researching multiple Web sites. The tool allows Federal purchasers to 

search, sort, and identify sustainable products and their associated guidance 

documentation to facilitate green purchasing decisions. 

• GSA’s GPC Tool: 

− Features a refined search function.

− Provides summaries of the environmental programs (i.e., the green 

purchasing program components).

− Offers a new instructional page about the tool’s functions.

− Provides users with the ability to search by keyword or browse by 

product category.

− Links to the EPA, DOE, and USDA environmental program Web sites.

− Distinguishes between mandatory purchasing programs and others 

that support the achievement of agency sustainable acquisition goals 

(e.g., EPA’s Design for the Environment Program).

− Identifies applicable FAR requirements.

−

Identifies and links to potential purchasing options, including GSA 

Multiple Award Schedules, GSA Global Supply, AbilityOne, and 

UNICOR (Federal Prison Industries, Inc.). 

− Provides current changes in green product designations.
22 

• The GSA's Green Procurement Compilation Tool includes categories for 

products and services, as follows: 

Products – 

− Appliances

− Biomedical Equipment and Supplies

− Building Finishes

− Building Furnishings

− Cafeteria Products

− Cleaning Products

− Construction Materials

− Contracted Printing Products

− Doors and Windows

− HVAC/Mechanical

− Landscaping Products

− Lighting and Ceiling Fans

− Lube, Oil, Hydraulic Fluid, & Grease 

− Miscellaneous

− Non-Paper Office Products

− Office Electronics

− Paper Office Products

− Park and Recreation

− Personal Care

− Plumbing Systems

− Refrigeration Systems

− Renewable Energy

− Roadway Construction

− Special Construction Products

− Traffic Control

− Vehicles and Vehicle Products

Services – 

− Cafeteria & Food Services

− Electronic Equipment Leasing

− Fleet Maintenance

− Janitorial Services

− Landscaping Services

− Laundry Services

− Meeting & Conference Services

− Pest Management

− Transportation Services
23 

References: 

− EPA’s EPP

− GSA’s GPC 

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (FAR) CLAUSES OR 

PROVISIONS 

FAR 23.703(b) states that agencies must maximize the use of 

environmentally preferable purchasing. 

• FAR Subpart 23.7 requires agencies to purchase environmentally 

preferable products: 

− FAR 23.703 Implement cost-effective contracting preference 

programs promoting energy-efficiency, water conservation, and the 

acquisition of environmentally preferable products and services; and 

employ acquisition strategies that affirmatively implement specified 

environmental objectives. 

− FAR 23.704 requires agencies to acquire Electronic Product 

Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT®)-registered electronic 

products, unless an exception applies. 

− FAR 23.705 requires use of specified EPEAT® contract clauses, 

unless an exception applies. 
24 

E. Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT®)-Registered 

Products

 Sponsoring Federal Agency: EPA 

 

• EPEAT® was developed using a grant by the EPA and managed by the 

Green Electronics Council (GEC). 

Description: 

EPEAT® is a comprehensive environmental rating that helps identify greener 

computers and other electronic equipment. The EPEAT® system was 

conceived and developed through the collaboration of stakeholders from the 

business, advocacy, government, and academic arenas. EPEAT® is used by 

hundreds of companies, universities, and government agencies in dozens of 

countries. Its rigorous requirements and searchable product database let 

buyers bypass marketing hype and confusing specifications. For participating 

manufacturers, EPEAT® is a chance to showcase and validate greener 

designs and cleaner production. EPEAT® is a powerful tool for enhancing the 

sustainability performance of virtually any organization. 

EPEAT® is dedicated to informing purchasers of the environmental criteria of 

electronic products. GEC’s EPEAT® Web site provides guidance for 

purchasers and manufacturers and hosts the database of EPEAT®-registered 

products. EPEAT®-registered computer desktops, laptops, and monitors must 

meet an environmental performance standard for electronic products—IEEE 

1680-2006. 

Laws, Regulations, or Policies: 

E.O. 13693 requires that all applicable procurements of purchases for 

electronic products be environmentally sustainable including those electronic 

products typically used in office spaces and data centers. 

E.O. 13693 does not include a specific reference to Electronic Product 

Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT). However, EPEAT is currently the 

only tool available to achieve the electronic stewardship mandates of section 

3(l) of E.O. 13693. Any future tools shall meet or exceed current levels of 

sustainable and environmental performance. E.O. 13693 continues to require 

that agencies promote electronic stewardship throughout the acquisition 
25 

lifecycle and ensure a procurement preference for environmentally 

sustainable electronic products. 

To meet the requirements of Sections 3(i)(iii) and 3(l)(i) of the E.O., agencies 

shall acquire electronic products that meet or exceed specifications, 

standards, or labels recommended by EPA that are available at 

http://www.epa.gov/greenerproducts/eparecommendations/. 

In 2009, the FAR was amended to require use of EPEAT® when acquiring 

personal computer products such as desktops, notebooks, laptops, and 

monitors pursuant to the EPAct of 2005. 

Discussion: 

EPEAT® is intended to help purchasers select desktop computers, displays, 

integrated desktop computers, notebooks, tablet notebooks, thin clients, 

workstation desktops, and workstation notebooks based on their 

environmental attributes. EPEAT®-registered electronic products meet 

environmental measures referred to as criteria. All of the criteria used in 

EPEAT® are based on American National Standards Institute 

(ANSI)-approved public standards, which provide technical details for every 

criterion and specify how the manufacturer must demonstrate compliance. 

• EPEAT® criteria reflect several categories of environmental attributes that 

cover the full lifecycle of electronic products. The 1680.1 personal 

computer (PC) and display standard addresses: 

− reduction or elimination of environmentally sensitive materials 

− material selection 

− design for end of life 

− product longevity and life extension 

− energy conservation 

− end-of-life management 

− corporate performance 

− packaging 

References: 

− EPEAT® program 

− EPEAT® registry search options

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (FAR) CLAUSES OR 

PROVISIONS 

• FAR Part 52 includes the following applicable clauses and provisions: 

− As prescribed in FAR 23.705(b)(1), insert the clause at FAR 

52.223-16 that Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 

1680 Standard for the environmental assessment of personal 

computer products in all solicitations and contracts applies to the 

purchase of all: 1) personal computer products; 2) services that 

require furnishing of personal computer products for use by the 
26 

Government; or 3) contractor operation of Government-owned 

facilities. 
27 

F. WaterSense or Other Water Efficient Products

Sponsoring Federal Agency: EPA 

• WaterSense

WaterSense is sponsored by the EPA in partnership with companies, 

organizations, communities, and individuals. There are more than 13,000 

firms and other organizations participating in partnership programs. 

Description: 

 

WaterSense seeks to protect the future of our nation’s water supply by 

offering people a simple way to use less water with water-efficient products, 

new homes, and services. 

Laws, Regulations, or Policies: 

EO 13693 (Section 3(i)(ii)(B)) and CEQ‘s Implementing Instructions require 

that each agency give preference to the purchase of water-efficient products, 

including those meeting EPA’s WaterSense standards. 

Discussion: 

The program seeks to help consumers make smart water choices that save 

money and maintain high environmental standards without compromising 

performance. Products and services that have earned the WaterSense label 

have been certified to be at least 20 percent more efficient without sacrificing 

performance. 

• WaterSense brings together a variety of stakeholders to: 

− Promote the value of water efficiency. 

− Provide consumers with easy ways to save water, as both a label for 

products and an information resource to help people use water more 

efficiently. 

− Encourage innovation in manufacturing. 
28 

− Decrease water use and reduce strain on water resources and 

infrastructure. 

Examples: 

WaterSense products include showerheads, toilets, bathroom sink 

faucets and accessories, landscape irrigation controllers, and urinals. 

References: 

− EPA’s Partnership Program Web site home page

− EPA’s WaterSense 

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (FAR) CLAUSES OR 

PROVISIONS 

FAR Part 23.2 requires agencies to purchase water-efficient products and 

services.

FAR 23.202 sets Federal policy to acquire supplies and services that promote 

water efficiency and help foster markets for emerging technologies. This 

policy extends to all acquisitions, including those below the simplified 

acquisition threshold.
29 

G. Significant New Alternative Policy (SNAP) chemicals or other alternatives 

to ozone-depleting substances and high global warming potential 

hydrofluorocarbons, where feasible, as identified by SNAP

Sponsoring Federal Agency: EPA 

• Significant New Alternative Policy (SNAP) 

Description: 

SNAP is used to evaluate and regulate substitutes for the ozone-depleting 

chemicals that are being phased out under the stratospheric ozone protection 

provisions of the CAA. 

The program reviews alternatives to ozone-depleting substances and 

approves the use of alternatives that do not present a substantially greater 

risk to public health and the environment than the substances they replace or 

than other available substitutes. SNAP provides lists of acceptable and 

unacceptable substitutes. 

Laws, Regulations, or Policies: 

EO 13693 (Section 3(i)(ii)(A)) and CEQ’s Implementing Instructions require 

that each agency give preference to the purchase of non-ozone-depleting 

substances, as identified in SNAP. The Implementing Instructions require that 

after meeting statutory requirements, agencies shall give preference to 

products identified by the following programs whenever these products meet 

performance criteria and are determined to be lifecycle cost effective. 

Significant New Alternative Policy (SNAP) chemicals or other alternatives to 

ozone-depleting substances and high global warming potential 

hydrofluorocarbons, where feasible, as identified by SNAP. 

Reference: 

− SNAP: EPA ozone layer protection 

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (FAR) CLAUSES OR 

PROVISIONS 

FAR Part 23.8 requires agencies to minimize the purchase of ozonedepleting substances (ODS).

FAR 23.803 requires agencies to minimize procurement of ODS and to give 

preference to suitable, safe alternatives. It states that agencies shall give 

preference to the procurement of alternative products that reduce overall 

risks to human health and the environment by lessening the depletion of 
30 

ozone in the upper stratosphere. It further requires that in preparing 

specifications and purchase descriptions, and the acquisition of supplies and 

services, agencies shall comply with the requirements of the CAA and 

substitute safe alternatives to ozone-depleting substances. 

FAR 23.804 requires the insertion of contract clauses on ODS and the 

service of refrigeration equipment and air conditioners. 

• FAR Part 52 includes the following applicable clauses and provisions: 

− As prescribed in FAR 23.804(a), insert FAR 52.223-11, “OzoneDepleting Substances,” in solicitations and clauses for ozonedepleting substances or for supplies that may contain or be 

manufactured with ozone-depleting substances. 

− As prescribed in FAR 23.804(b), insert FAR 52.223-12, “Refrigeration 

Equipment and Air Conditioners,” in solicitations and contracts for 

services when the contract includes the maintenance, repair, or 

disposal of any equipment or appliance using ozone-depleting 

substances as a refrigerant, such as air conditioners, including motor 

vehicles, refrigerators, chillers, or freezers. 

 
31 

H. Products Containing Non- or Low-Toxic or Hazardous Constituents

Sponsoring Federal Agency: EPA 

• Products Containing Non- or Low-Toxic or Hazardous Constituents 

Description: 

Hazardous waste is defined as liquid, solid, contained gas, or sludge wastes 

that contain properties that are dangerous or potentially harmful to human 

health or the environment. 

Under RCRA, a waste is hazardous if it is “listed” as waste or it exhibits a 

hazardous characteristic. 

• Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations (40 CFR) Part 261, “Lists of 

Hazardous Waste”

• 40 CFR 261.31, “Hazardous Wastes from Nonspecific Sources”

• 40 CFR 261.32, “Hazardous Wastes from Specific Sources”

• 40 CFR 261.33, “Discarded Commercial Chemical Products, OffSpecification Species, Container Residues, and Spill Residues Thereof”

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) 

VOCs are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. They include a 

variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse 

health effects. Concentrations of many VOCs are consistently higher indoors 

(up to 10 times higher) than outdoors. VOCs are emitted by a wide array of 

products numbering in the thousands. 

VOCs are found in everything from paints and coatings to underarm 

deodorant and cleaning fluids. They are a major concern of the EPA and 

State air quality boards all over the United States. VOCs are a major 

contributing factor to ozone, a common air pollutant, which has been proven 

to be a public health hazard. 

Laws, Regulations, or Policies: 

EO 13693 (Section 3(j)(iv) and CEQ‘s Implementing Instructions require that 

each agency reduce or minimize the quantity of toxic and hazardous 

chemicals and materials acquired, used, or disposed of, particularly where 
32 

such reduction will assist the agency in pursuing agency greenhouse gas 

emission reduction targets established in section 2 of the EO. 

The CAA gives the EPA authority to regulate VOCs in the air. They originate 

from natural and manmade materials. VOCs that result in outdoor air pollution 

are considered toxic chemicals. A few products, such as outdoor paints and 

industrial solvents, fall under the CAA. VOCs are considered dangerous 

partly because environmental release causes a reaction that produces 

dangerous ground-level ozone. 

Examples: 

VOCs can be found in paints and lacquers, paint strippers, cleaning supplies, 

pesticides, building materials and furnishings, office equipment such as 

copiers and printers, correction fluids and carbonless copy paper, graphics 

and craft materials such as glues and adhesives, permanent markers, and 

photographic solutions. Organic chemicals are widely used as ingredients in 

household products. Paints, varnishes, and wax all contain organic solvents, 

as do many cleaning, disinfecting, cosmetic, degreasing, and hobby products. 

Fuels are made up of organic chemicals. All of these products can release 

organic compounds during use and, to some degree, when they are stored. 

Discussion: 

While ozone in the upper atmosphere is beneficial, ozone at ground level is 

quite the opposite. The atmospheric ozone layer helps protect us from the 

sun’s dangerous ultraviolet rays. Ground-level ozone, however, is a highly 

reactive gas that, according to EPA studies, “affects the normal function of 

the lung in many healthy humans.” 

These studies show that breathing air with ozone concentrations above air 

quality standards aggravates symptoms of people with pulmonary diseases 

and seems to increase rates of asthma attacks. There also is evidence that 

prolonged exposure to ozone causes permanent damage to lung tissue and 

interferes with the functioning of the immune system. 

Short-term exposure to high levels of some VOCs can cause headaches, 

dizziness, light-headedness, drowsiness, nausea, and eye and respiratory 

irritation. These effects usually go away after the exposure stops. In 

laboratory animals, long-term exposure to high levels of some VOCs has 

caused cancer and affected the liver, kidneys and nervous system. In 

general, EPA recommends minimizing exposure to chemicals, if possible. 

Examples of Household Products Possible VOC Ingredients 

Fuel containers or devices using gasoline, 

kerosene, fuel oil and products with 

petroleum distillates: paint thinner, oil-based 

stains and paints, aerosol or liquid insect 

pest products, mineral spirits, and furniture 

polishes 

BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, 

xylene), hexane, cyclohexane, 

1,2,4-trimethylbenzene 

Personal care products: nail polish, nail Acetone, ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, 
33 

polish remover, colognes, perfumes, rubbing 

alcohol, and hair spray 

methacrylates (methyl or ethyl), ethyl 

acetate 

Dry-cleaned clothes, spot removers, fabric or 

leather cleaners 

Tetrachloroethene (perchloroethene 

(PERC), trichloroethene (TCE)) 

Citrus (orange) oil or pine oil cleaners, 

solvents, and some odor-masking products 

d-limonene (citrus odor), a-pinene (pine 

odor), isoprene 

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cement and primer, 

various adhesives, contact cement, and 

model cement 

Tetrahydrofuran, cyclohexane, methyl 

ethyl ketone, toluene, acetone, hexane, 

1,1,1-trichloroethane, methy-isobutyl 

ketone 

Paint stripper and adhesive (glue) removers Methylene chloride, toluene, older 

products may contain carbon tetrachloride

Degreasers, aerosol penetrating oils, brake 

cleaner, carburetor cleaner, commercial 

solvents, electronics cleaners, and spray 

lubricants 

Methylene chloride, PERC, TCE, toluene, 

xylenes, methyl ethyl ketone, 

1,1,1-trichloroethane 

Moth balls, moth flakes, deodorizers, and air 

fresheners 

1,4-dichlorobenzene, naphthalene 

Refrigerant from air conditioners, freezers, 

and refrigerators, dehumidifiers 

Freons (trichlorofluoromethane, 

dichlorodifluoromethane) 

Aerosol spray products for some paints, 

cosmetics, automotive products, leather 

treatments, and pesticides 

Heptane, butane, pentane 

Upholstered furniture, carpets, plywood, and 

pressed wood products 

Formaldehyde 

References: 

− CFR §261

− EPA: An Introduction to Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) 

− The Pollution Information site

 

 
34 

I. Alternative Fuel Vehicles and Alternative Fuels 

Sponsoring Federal Agency: DOE 

• Alternative Fuel Vehicles and Alternative Fuels 

Description: 

The Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles Data Center (AFDC) provides 

information, data, and tools to help fleets and other transportation decisionmakers find ways to reduce petroleum consumption through the use of 

alternative and renewable fuels, advanced vehicles, and other fuel-saving 

measures. 

Vehicle emissions are known to negatively affect air quality and human 

health. For these reasons, emission reduction plays a role in many fleet and 

consumer decisions to acquire alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs). However, 

many drivers don’t know that emission reductions vary among alternative 

fuels. FEMP details emission pollutants and their impact on human health 

and the environment, compares alternative fuel emissions with those of their 

conventional counterparts, and explains the methodology used to compare 

vehicle emissions. 

Laws, Regulations, or Policies: 

EO 13693 (Section 12a) requires GSA to ensure that vehicles available to 

agencies for either lease or sale, at or below market cost, through its vehicle 

program include an adequate variety and volume of alternative fuel vehicles, 

including zero emission and plug-in hybrid vehicles, to meet the fleet 

management goals of this order. 

The alternative fuel vehicle and alternative fuels Federal acquisition program 

definitions and requirements are established by Title III of the EPAct of 1992, 

as amended by the EPAct of 2005 and EISA of 2007 and EO 13693. Under 

the EPAct, alternative fuel vehicles are defined as any dedicated flexible-fuel 

or dual-fuel vehicle designed to operate on at least one alternative fuel. The 

objective is to reduce the volume of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, 

commonly referred to as greenhouse gas (GHG). Under the EPAct, 

alternative fuel vehicles are defined as any dedicated, flexible-fuel, or dualfuel vehicle designed to operate on at least one alternative fuel. As defined by 

the EPAct, alternative fuels (AFs) are substantially nonpetroleum based fuels 

and include (but are not limited to) the following: ethanol at an 85 percent 

blend or higher (E85), liquefied petroleum gas (propane), compressed natural 

gas (CNG), biodiesel, electricity, hydrogen, and P-series fuels. 
35 

Federal agencies are mandated by the EPAct and EISA to purchase 

alternative fuel vehicles, increase consumption of alternative fuels, and 

reduce petroleum consumption. Federal fleets are required to obtain 75 

percent of their light-duty annual acquisitions as AFVs in metropolitan 

statistical areas (MSAs). An MSA is a U.S. Government classification for a 

free-standing urban population center with a population in the urban center of 

at least 50,000 and a total population of 100,000 or more. Vehicles acquired 

outside of the MSAs also count toward an agency’s percentage, but are not 

required. 

• Section 301 of the EPAct defines alternative fuels as: 

− biodiesel

− ethanol

− electricity

− hydrogen

− methanol

− mixtures containing up to 85 percent methanol or de-natured ethanol 

− natural gas

− propone (liquefied petroleum gas)

• In addition, Section 2862 of the National Defense Authorization Act of 

2008 (NDAA 2008) expanded the definition of AFVs. AFVs include the 

following four types of vehicles: 

− a new qualified fuel cell motor vehicle 

− a new advanced lean burn technology motor vehicles 

− a new qualified hybrid motor vehicle 

− any other type of vehicle that the EPA Administrator demonstrates to 

the Secretary of Energy would achieve a significant reduction in 

petroleum consumption 

Federal agencies are required to use GSA when making vehicle purchases. 

To meet environmental standards, GSA offers Federal agencies fuel-efficient 

vehicles that provide long-term environmental benefits. Agencies can 

purchase these vehicles from GSA AutoChoice, lease them from the GSA 

Fleet, or use GSA Schedules to lease automobiles and light trucks directly 

from automotive vendors. 

 

References: 

− GSA Buy Green Vehicles

− GSA Fleet and Automotive

− GSA Vehicle Buying Overview

− GSA Motor Vehicle Management Overview

− EPA Green Vehicles Guidance 

− EPA SmartWay® Program

− DOE Fuel Economy Web site
36 

− DOE Alternative Fuel Vehicle Emissions

− DOE Sustainable Federal Fleets

− DOE Alternative Fuels Data Center

− 41 CFR 101-26.501–Purchase of new motor vehicles 

− 48 CFR. 908.7101-2–Consolidated acquisition of new vehicles by 

General Services Administration

• As defined by the EPAct of 2005, alternative fuels are substantially nonpetroleum-based fuels and include, but are not limited to, the following: 

− Biodiesel – Biodiesel is a domestically produced, renewable fuel that 

can be manufactured from new and used vegetable oils, animal fats, 

and recycled restaurant grease. Biodiesel’s physical properties are 

similar to those of petroleum diesel, but it is a cleaner-burning 

alternative. Using biodiesel in place of petroleum diesel reduces 

emissions (see Biodiesel Vehicle Emissions). 

− Ethanol – Ethanol is produced domestically from corn and other 

crops. The alcohol found in alcoholic beverages is ethanol. Ethanol is 

an alcohol-based fuel made by fermenting and distilling starch crops, 

such as corn. It can also be made from “cellulosic biomass” such as 

trees and grasses. However, the ethanol used for motor fuel is 

denatured, which means poison has been added so people can’t drink 

it. E85 is a high-level gasoline-ethanol blend that contains between 

51 percent and 83 percent of ethanol, depending on geography and 

season. Ethanol produces less greenhouse gas emissions than 

conventional fuels. The use of ethanol can reduce greenhouse gas 

emissions (see Ethanol Vehicle Emissions). 

− Electricity – Electric vehicles use electrical energy stored in batteries 

or other energy-storage devices (see Electric Vehicle Emissions).

− Hydrogen – Hydrogen can be produced domestically from fossil fuels 

(such as coal), nuclear power, or renewable resources, such as 

hydropower. Fuel cell vehicles powered by pure hydrogen emit no 

harmful air pollutants. Because hydrogen burns nearly pollution-free, it 

has been looked at as the ultimate clean fuel. When burned, it turns 

into heat and water vapor. When burned in an internal combustion 

engine (the kind of engine in gasoline cars today), the combustion 

also produces small amounts of other gases. These other gases are 

mostly oxides of nitrogen because the hydrogen is being burned with 

air, which is about two-thirds nitrogen. Being a noncarbon fuel, the 

exhaust is free of carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide, emitted when 

consumers burn fossil fuels, is causing the world’s climate to change 

(see Hydrogen Vehicle Emissions). 

− Methanol – Methanol is typically made from natural gas, although it is 

possible to produce it by fermenting biomass (this is why it is 

sometimes called “wood alcohol”). This fuel source is not yet 

economically competitive. Because it is easier to transport natural gas 

to a distant market by converting it to methanol, which is a liquid at 
37 

ordinary temperatures and pressures, than by chilling and liquefying it 

or by building a long pipeline, some petroleum-exporting countries are 

looking at exporting their “waste” natural gas (which they currently 

“flare off” in huge flames visible from the Space Shuttle) by converting 

it to methanol. However, most of the natural gas that goes into 

methanol in the United States is still domestically produced. For 

reasons explained below, most fuel methanol in this country is sold as 

a blend of 85 percent methanol with 15 percent unleaded premium 

gasoline, which explains the significance of “M85.” In the not-toodistant future, “neat” (100 percent) methanol may be the preferred 

means of storing hydrogen for fuel-cell electric vehicles, but this 

technology is still in the research and development (R&D) stage. 

− Denatured Alcohol – Denatured alcohol or methylated spirits is 

ethanol that has additives. Denatured alcohol is a colorless, liquid 

form of alcohol to which chemicals are added to alter the chemical 

makeup of the product. Denatured alcohol is commonly ethanol with 

chemicals, including methanol, isopropanol, and gasoline, added to 

change the purpose of the alcohol. Ethanol is denatured with the 

addition of gasoline to create a denatured alcohol that is a high octane 

fuel capable of creating energy when burned within a combustion 

engine. To denature ethanol for renewable fuels, gasoline is 

commonly added to the fuel in various mixtures to create fuels 

capable of performing at different levels. Common ethanol mixtures 

are E10, which is made up of 10 percent ethanol and 85 percent 

gasoline, and E85, a higher performing fuel with 85 percent ethanol 

and 15 percent gasoline. 

− Natural Gas – Natural gas is a fossil fuel that generates less air 

pollutants and greenhouse gases. Natural gas is mostly made up of 

methane, about 95 percent of the natural gas. The other 5 percent is 

made up of various gases along with small amounts of water vapor. 

These other gases include butane, propane, ethane and other trace 

gases. It is clean burning and not made from petroleum, as gasoline 

and diesel are. Cars, vans, buses and small trucks generally use 

natural gas that has been compressed (called compressed natural 

gas or CNG) and stored in high-pressure cylinders (see Natural Gas 

Vehicle Emissions). 

− Propane – Propane, also called liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is a 

domestically abundant fossil fuel that generates less harmful air 

pollutants and greenhouse gases. LPG is mostly made up of a 

mixture of propane and other similar types of hydrocarbon gases. 

Different batches of LPG have slightly different amounts of the 

different kinds of hydrocarbon molecules. These hydrocarbons are 

gases at room temperature, but turn to liquid when they are 

compressed. LPG is stored in special tanks that keep it under 

pressure, so it stays a liquid. 

− P-series fuels (blends) – P-series fuels is a family of renewable, 

nonpetroleum, liquid fuels that can be substituted for gasoline. They 
38 

are a blend of 25 or so domestically produced ingredients. About 35 

percent of P-Series fuels come from liquid by-products, known as 

“C5+” or “pentanes-plus,” which are left over when natural gas is 

processed for transport and marketing. Ethanol, fermented from corn, 

comprises about 45 percent, and the remaining 20 percent is MeTHF, 

an ether derived from lignocelullosic biomass: paper sludge, 

wastepaper, food waste, yard and wood waste, agricultural waste, 

and so on (see IAGS – P-Series Fuels).

 
39 

III. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 

 This section outlines the roles and responsibilities of each office and official. 

A. Federal Chief Sustainability Officer (FCSO) 

 

• EO 13693 established the designation of a Federal Chief Sustainability 

Officer to ensure that agencies comply with the requirements of the EO. 

• The Federal Environmental Executive is housed within CEQ, OFEE. A 1983 

EO created the OFEE position, which oversees implementation of President 

Barack Obama’s EO on federal sustainability (EO 13693) and the GreenGov 

initiative, working collaboratively with the Office of Management and Budget 

(OMB) and each of the Federal agencies. 

• EO 13693, Section 6, entitled “Duties of the Federal Chief Sustainability 

Officer,” requires the appointment of a Federal Chief Sustainability Officer, 

designated by the President, to head OFEE. The Federal Chief Sustainability 

Officer is required to: 

− Monitor progress and advise the Chair of CEQ on agency goals in 

sections 2 and 3 of this EO. 

− Chair, convene, and preside at quarterly meetings; determine the agenda; 

and direct the work of the Steering Committee. 

− Lead the development of programs and policies to assist agencies in 

implementing the goals of this order in coordination with DOE, EPA, the 

General Services Administration (GSA), and other agencies as 

appropriate. 

− Coordinate and provide direction to relevant existing workgroups through 

quarterly meetings to ensure that opportunities for improvement in 

implementation of this order are identified and addressed. 

− Advise the Chair of CEQ on the implementation of this order. 

B. Agency Chief Sustainability Officer (ACSO) 

• The agency CSO is the Director, Office of Administration. 

 

• EO 13693 required each Federal agency to designate an agency Chief 

Sustainability Officer (CSO) from among the agency’s senior management 

officials. This official is accountable for agency conformance with the 

requirements of this EO. 

• The Agency Chief Sustainability Officer is responsible for: 

− Ensuring agency policies, plans, and strategies implemented to achieve 

the goals of this order consider the role of agency regional facilities and 
40 

personnel and are integrated into agency permitting and environmental 

review policies, programs, and planning. 

− Developing and implementing an agency-wide strategic process that 

coordinates appropriate agency functions and programs to ensure that 

these functions and programs consider and address the goals of this EO. 

− Reporting annually to the Chair of CEQ and Director of OMB a 

comprehensive inventory of progress toward the greenhouse gas 

emissions goals established in section 2 of this EO. 

− Representing the agency on the Steering Committee. 

− Convening quarterly meetings of agency bureaus, commands, or 

operating divisions that are responsible for the implementation of 

strategies necessary to meet the goals of this order. 

− Representing the agency in any requests to the Chair of CEQ and 

Director of OMB to amend or normalize a baseline for goals established 

in this order due to change of greater than 5 percent as a result of agency 

space consolidation, a change in mission tempo, or improved data 

quality. 

− Providing plans, including the Plan prepared under section 14 of this EO, 

reports, information, and assistance necessary to implement this EO, to 

the Director of OMB, the Chair of CEQ, and the Federal Chief 

Sustainability Officer. 

− Performing such other duties relating to the implementation of this EO as 

the head of the agency deems appropriate. 

• The Director, Office of Administration, is more specifically responsible for: 

− Directing, integrating, and coordinating NRC’s GPP. 

− Providing program leadership and coordination for the NRC’s APP 

according to EO 13693. 

− Managing development of regulations, policies, and guidance on green 

purchasing programs. 

− Consulting with managers on green purchasing requirements. 

− Ensuring that green purchasing requirements are addressed in the NRC’s 

acquisition regulations, Management Directive 11.1, “NRC Acquisition of 

Supplies and Services,” and other policy guidance. 

− Coordinating the preparation, review, analysis, and submission of reports 

on the NRC’s progress towards meeting the goals of EO 13693 to CEQ‘s 

Chair and the Director, OMB). 
41 

− Monitoring agency progress in meeting goals and requirements of EO 

13693. 

− Establishing and implementing environmental and energy performance 

measures and data input to meet EO and OMB scorecard reporting 

requirements. 

− Providing oversight of green purchasing training for acquisition and 

program office personnel and purchase cardholders. 

C. Regional Administrators (RA) 

• Regional Administrators are responsible for: 

− Ensuring that regional office purchases comply with this GPP for the 

acquisition of green products and services. 

− Providing reports or data to DAS, the Division of Facilities and Security 

(DFS) and the Acquisition Management Division (AMD) on green 

purchasing information for reports to OMB or OFEE. 

− Advocating, promoting, and supporting regional office recycling programs 

by GSA and lessors. 

− Identifying and implementing opportunities to reduce waste. 

− Complying with EO 13693 and other Federal regulations. 

− Ensuring that all eligible contract actions, including task and delivery 

orders, require the supply or use of products and services that are 

energy-efficient (EnergyStar® or FEMP-designated products), water 

efficient, biobased, environmentally preferable (excluding EPEAT®-

registered products), non-ozone-depleting, contain recycled content, or 

are non- or low-toxic alternatives. 

− Ensure that the agency achieves at least 95 percent compliance with the 

BioPreferred and biobased purchasing. If not, establish an annual target 

for the number of contracts to be awarded with BioPreferred and 

biobased criteria and dollar value of BioPreferred and biobased products 

to be delivered and reported under those contracts in the following fiscal 

year. (See III.E.4 of Implementing Instructions for guidance.) 

D. Director, Division of Administrative Services (DAS) 

• The Director, Division of Administrative Services, Office of Administration, is 

responsible for: 

− Directing agency waste reduction and recycling programs. 

− Coordinating with the AMD (lead) in the development and implementation 

of acquisition policies and procedures to comply with EO 13693. 
42 

E. Director, Acquisition Management Division (AMD) 

 

• The Director, Acquisition Management Division, Office of Administration, is 

responsible for: 

− Promulgating and implementing the NRC’s GPP, in coordination with 

DAS/DFS. 

− Promulgating and implementing procurement policies and regulations in 

coordination with DAS and DFS to comply with EO 13693. 

− Ensuring NRC procurement staff is given adequate guidance and training 

in coordination with DAS and DFS to comply with EO 13693. 

− Coordinating with DAS and DFS to provide acquisition guidance and 

training to NRC staff necessary to comply with EO 13693. 

− Providing acquisition data to DAS and DFS for reports required by EO 

13693.

− Informing procurement staff and program offices of their responsibilities 

under the NRC’s GPP and providing them with information about Federal 

environmental programs. 

− Evaluating the NRC’s practices, providing oversight and coordinating 

outreach and training for staff. 

− Working with the Director, ADM, and DFS to review and analyze green 

purchasing data for inclusion in agency reports. 

− Ensuring that all eligible contract actions, including task and delivery 

orders, require the supply or use of products and services that are 

energy-efficient (EnergyStar® or FEMP-designated products), water 

efficient, biobased, environmentally preferable (excluding EPEAT®-

registered products), non-ozone-depleting, contain recycled content, or 

are non- or low-toxic alternatives. 

− Ensure that the agency achieves at least 95 percent compliance with the 

BioPreferred and biobased purchasing. If not, establish an annual target 

for the number of contracts to be awarded with BioPreferred and 

biobased criteria and dollar value of BioPreferred and biobased products 

to be delivered and reported under those contracts in the following fiscal 

year. (See III.E.4 of Implementing Instructions for guidance.) 

F. Director, Division of Facilities and Security (DFS) 

• The Director, Division of Administrative Services, Office of Administration, is 

responsible for: 
43 

− Implementing tools to incorporate EO 13693 and the NRC’s Strategic 

Plan into real property management, including energy efficiency, waste 

reduction, and acquisition of environmentally preferable products. 

− Ensuring that facility statements of work specify product specifications in 

accordance with the NRC’s APP, GPP, and Federal green purchasing 

guidelines and requirements, and other Federal environmental 

requirements. 

− Coordinating the submission of Strategic Sustainability Performance 

Plans to OMB in coordination with DAS and AMD. 

G. Chief, Administrative Services Center 

• The Chief, Administrative Services Center Branch, Division of Administrative 

Services, Office of Administration, is responsible for: 

− Ensuring that supply specifications require recovered material content in 

accordance with the NRC’s APP, GPP, and Federal green purchasing 

guidelines and requirements. 

H. Chief, Facilities Management Branch (FMB) 

• The Chief, Facilities Management Branch, is responsible for: 

− Monitoring the activities of the Program Manager for Greening Initiatives, 

agency recycling coordinator, and facility recycling coordinators. 

− Supporting the Director, DFS, in: 

− Implementing tools to incorporate EO 13693 and the NRC’s Strategic 

Plan into real property management, including energy efficiency, waste 

reduction and acquisition of environmentally preferable products. 

− Ensuring that facility statements of work specify product specifications in 

accordance with the NRC’s APP, GPP, and Federal green purchasing 

guidelines and requirements, and other Federal environmental 

requirements. 

− Coordinating the submission of strategic sustainability performance plans 

to OMB in coordination with DAS and AMD. 

I. Program Manager for Greening Initiatives

• The Program Manager for Greening Initiatives, located in the Facilities 

Management Branch, is responsible for: 

− Serving as the NRC’s primary point of contact on environmental issues. 

− Reviewing and monitoring agency procurement of recycled content 

products in accordance with RCRA Section 6002(i) and this GPP, and 
44 

recommending appropriate actions to agency managers for program 

improvement. 

− Providing GPP guidance to staff and keeping the Agency Chief 

Sustainability Officer and managers informed of APP activities. 

− Providing assistance to NRC staff in identifying sources and products and 

in reviewing specifications, when requested. 

− Preparing reports to OMB or OFEE on the NRC’s environmental program. 

J. Agency Recycling Coordinator (ARC) 

• The ARC, located in the Facilities Management Branch, is responsible for: 

− Implementing Headquarters recycling and waste prevention program 

activities and providing assistance to Facility Recycling Coordinators in 

implementing their programs. 

− Promoting recycling efforts through outreach efforts that include Earth 

Day and America Recycles Day activities. 

− Providing up-to-date recycling information on the NRC’s ADM Recycling 

Program on the Intranet. 

K. Facility Recycling Coordinators (FRC) 

 

• The FRCs, located in the Facilities Management Branch, are responsible for: 

− Promoting and implementing recycling and waste prevention programs 

managed by GSA and building lessors at non-Headquarters building 

sites. 

L. Environmental Point of Contact (for Acquisition Management Division)

• The Acquisition Management Division’s (AMD) Environmental Point of 

Contact is responsible for: 

− Providing guidance, policies, and procedures to AMD staff and CORs on 

environmental requirements and issues.

− Facilitating training for AMD staff on at least an annual basis.

− Providing support to AMD and CORs on green issues, as necessary. 

− Providing FMB with required green purchasing information for OMB’s 

annual Sustainability Report and other required reports.

− Creating and updating green purchasing information and materials for 

ADM.
45 

M. Contracting Officers and Contract Specialists

• Contracting Officers and Contract Specialists are responsible for: 

− Ensuring purchases comply with the NRC’s APP, GPP, and Federal 

green purchasing guidelines and requirements. 

− Reviewing program office justifications for not purchasing an EPAdesignated product containing recovered materials and including 

approved justifications in the official contract files (see justification 

requirements at FAR 23.405(b)). 

− Reviewing program office justifications for not purchasing EnergyStar®- or 

EPEAT®-registered products and including approved justifications in the 

official contract files (see justification requirements at FAR 23.704(c)). 

− Reviewing requests to ascertain and validate whether green products or 

services are involved in the procurement action. 

− Ensuring that solicitations and contracts (including task and delivery 

orders and purchase orders) contain the appropriate provisions and 

clauses pursuant to FAR Part 23. 

− Providing guidance and facilitating acquisition planning to program office 

personnel with respect to environmentally preferable goods and services. 

− Requiring that vendors certify that the percentage of recovered materials 

and biobased products to be used in the performance of the contract will 

be at least the amount required by applicable specifications or other 

contractual requirements as delineated in Section 6002 of RCRA (1976) 

or Section 9002 of FSRIA (2002). 

− Employing lifecycle cost analysis, whenever feasible and appropriate, to 

assist in making product and service selections. 

− Ensuring that green purchases are recorded accurately and timely in the 

agency automated acquisition system. 

− Implementing the provisions in the NRC APP. 

− Ensuring that vendors are familiar with green purchasing requirements 

contained in their solicitations or contracts. 

− Reviewing with appropriate vendors their role in the procurement of green 

products and services during the initial contract kickoff meeting and 

reinforcing with the contractor, when appropriate, during contract 

performance. 

− Ensuring that applicable FAR green purchasing language and clauses 

and GPP requirements are included when modifying existing contracts 

that contain green products. 
46 

N. Program Offices 

 

• Program Offices (Requirements Officials) are responsible for: 

− Being aware of Federal green purchasing programs and requirements. 

− Determining if green products or services are required. 

− Identifying and documenting if green products and services are available 

and can satisfy requirements for price, availability, and performance. 

− Ensuring that relevant green procurement requirements are identified 

before submission to the contracting office or other source of supply so 

that final and approved purchase requests properly address all relevant 

green procurement requirements. 

− Considering life-cycle cost concepts to determine cost effectiveness of 

green products and services for use in procurement decisions. 

− Including a written justification with the procurement requisition for an 

acquisition that describes why an EPA-designated product(s) containing 

recovered materials was not acquired (see FAR 23.405(b)(2)). 

− Including a written justification with the procurement requisition for an 

acquisition that describes why an EnergyStar®-designated or EPEAT®-

registered product(s) was not acquired (see FAR 23.704(c)). 

− Consulting early in the procurement process with appropriate parties 

(e.g., environmental specialists, energy personnel, contract specialists 

and contracting officers, and environmental points of contact) to facilitate 

acquisition planning and to prepare statements of work or specifications 

that include: elimination of virgin raw materials (and use of recycled raw 

material inputs); reuse of products; use of recovered materials; energy 

and water efficiency; recyclability; or other environmentally preferable 

products or services. 

− Monitoring contract performance to ensure compliance with green 

procurement requirements in accordance with the terms of the contract. 

− Implementing the provisions in the GPP. 

− Using boilerplate specifications and model templates for contracts, as 

appropriate. 

− Ensuring that specifications require the use of environmentally preferable 

products and services to the maximum extent practicable. 
47 

O. Purchase Card Program Manager 

• The Purchase Card Program Manager is responsible for: 

− Including and updating green purchasing requirements in the Purchase 

Card Handbook. 

− Conducting reviews, as part of annual audits, to ensure cardholders are 

meeting Government Purchase Card Program requirements in 

compliance with this GPP. 

− Implementing the provisions in the GPP. 

− Reviewing cardholder entries in the Financial Accounting and Integrated 

Management Information System to ensure purchases are in compliance 

with the GPP and ensuring that cardholders have noted the appropriate 

exemptions for non-GPP compliant purchases. 

Reference: 

− NRC Office of Administration’s Purchase Card Handbook

P. Purchase Card Holders 

• Purchase cardholders are responsible for: 

− Purchasing green products and services when making purchases, 

including those at or below the micro-purchase threshold, in accordance 

with FAR 13.201. 

− Receiving training on the requirement to purchase green products and 

services. 

− Knowing and implementing the Purchase Card Handbook and GPP.

Q. Contractors 

• Contractors are responsible for: 

− Complying with green purchasing requirements set forth in their contracts. 

− Providing reports to the NRC in accordance with FAR 52.223-2 for 

biobased products. 
48 

R. State and Local Agencies 

• State and local agencies are responsible for: 

• Establishing an APP program and purchasing products containing 

recovered materials when buying more than $10,000 worth of 

EPA-designated products in a year and receiving some Federal funds for 

the purchase. 

• Complying with green purchasing requirements set forth in their Federal 

grants. 
49 

IV. AFFIRMATIVE PROCUREMENT PROGRAM (APP)

 A. Objectives 

• Inform all appropriate NRC employees on the requirements of the Federal 

green procurement preference programs, their roles and responsibilities 

relevant to these programs, and the opportunities to purchase green products 

and services. 

• Purchase green products and services to the maximum extent practicable, 

consistent with the demands of the mission, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, 

and performance, with continual improvement toward meeting federally 

established procurement goals. 

• Reduce the amount of solid and hazardous waste generated. 

• Reduce the consumption of energy and natural resources. 

• Expand markets for green products and services. 

B. Policy 

Section 6002 of RCRA, as amended (42 U.S.C. 6962), requires procuring 

agencies to implement an APP consisting of four elements: (1) a preference 

program, (2) a promotion program, (3) procedures for estimation, certification, 

and verification, and (4) procedures for annual review and monitoring. 

The NRC will provide a preference for recycled content, EnergyStar®- and 

FEMP-designated energy-efficient products, low standby power, biobased, EPP, 

EPEAT®, water-efficient, non-ozone-depleting products, and alternative fuel 

vehicles and alternative fuels. This preference will be established in all NRC 

contracts, as appropriate, in accordance with Section 6002 of RCRA, Section 

104 of the EPAct, Section 9002 of FSRIA, and the FAR. 

In terms of the NRC’s relevant purchases, 100 percent must meet or exceed 

EPA guideline standards unless there is written justification that the products or 

services: (1) are not available competitively or within a reasonable time frame, 

(2) do not meet appropriate performance or safety standards, or (3) are available 

only at an unreasonable price. For biobased products, preference is given for 

purchasing the product with the highest percentage of biobased content. 

Purchase cardholders and contracting officers must document the file, with input 

from the requesting program office, when justifying the purchase of other-thanenvironmentally preferable products and services. 

Recycled content products must be purchased containing the percentages of 

recovered materials (recycled content) indicated in EPA’s recommended 

recovered materials minimum content ranges. A complete listing of recycled 

content products is available at CPG Products. 
50 

C. Hazardous Materials Prohibitions, Limitations, and Requirements 

1. Prohibitions on EPA Priority Chemicals 

FAR 23.703 requires agencies to eliminate or reduce the generation of 

hazardous waste and promote the use of non-hazardous materials. EPA has 

defined a priority chemical list to include very specific uses of cadmium, lead, 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), mercury, and naphthalene as follows: 

− cadmium – electroplating processes 

− lead – soldering processes 

− PCBs – when used as insulating material (dielectric fluids in electrical 

equipment such as transformers and ballasts) 

− mercury – aneroid manometers and temperature measuring devices, 

electronic thermostats, mechanical switches, and ultrasonic and 

photoelectric sensors 

− naphthalene – pesticides and pesticide applications 

The NRC prohibits use of these chemicals in the applications and equipment 

listed above. As a result, whenever procuring equipment or materials as 

described above, NRC purchasers must look for alternatives to the five 

priority chemicals or products containing them. 

2. Purchase Alternatives to Hazardous Chemicals and Ozone-Depleting 

Substances 

Consistent with FAR 23.303, the NRC should purchase alternatives to 

hazardous chemicals and ODS (as defined by the EPA) and minimize the 

acquisition of materials and substances that also contribute to ozone 

depletion. SNAP lists alternatives to ozone-depleting substances. 

FAR Subpart 23.8 outlines guidance for procurement of items that contain or 

use ODS. The following might all contain ODS: building construction, 

renovation, and maintenance products; products for metals cleaning, 

electronics cleaning, and precision cleaning; and products used in fire 

suppression systems. Thus, in preparing requisitions and solicitations 

(specifications) for purchase of supplies or services, the NRC will ensure that 

acquisitions comply with the CAA and use safe alternatives to 

ozone-depleting substances. 

The NRC will give preference to the procurement of alternative chemicals, 

products, and manufacturing processes that reduce overall risks to human 

health and the environment by lessening the depletion of the ozone in the 

upper atmosphere. 
51 

3. Hazardous Material Identification and Material Safety Data Substances 

The contracting officer will obtain information during evaluation of proposals 

relative to the hazards that may be introduced into the workplace or 

environment by the supplies being acquired such as: 

− Guidelines required by Federal Standard No. 313 (including revisions 

adopted during the term of the contract) in obtaining hazardous material 

(48 CFR 23.3). 

− Supplies identified by an NRC technical representative as being 

potentially hazardous and requiring safety controls. 

Accordingly, offerors and contractors are required to submit hazardous 

materials data whenever the supplies being acquired are identified as 

hazardous materials. The successful offeror shall be required to submit 

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) before the contract award, unless the 

offeror certifies that the supplies are not hazardous, and again by the 

contractor at the time of delivery consistent with FAR 52.223-3. The 

contracting officer shall provide a copy of all MSDS received to the safety 

officer or other designated individual. To access search feature, see: 

http://www.msdssearch.com/. 

 

D. Implementation of the NRC’s GPP 

1. Implementation of the GPP—Includes all Parties in the Acquisition 

Process 

The successful implementation of the NRC’s GPP begins during early market 

research and culminates with a requisition prepared by a program office. It is 

the responsibility of the program office COR to ensure that the goods or 

services being procured comply with purchasing guidelines for the use of 

designated recycled content products (i.e., CPG), EPEAT®-registered 

products, EnergyStar®- and FEMP-designated efficient products and 

appliances, USDA-designated biobased products (Biopreferred® program), 

environmentally preferable products, WaterSense and other water efficient 

products, products containing non- or lower-ozone-depleting substances 

(i.e., SNAP), and products containing non- or low-toxic or hazardous 

constituents (e.g., non-VOC paint). 

The process of promoting environmentally preferable products or services 

includes the program office and contracting officers, environmental 

managers, senior and executive management, and other NRC personnel. 

The requirements official shall review the list of EPA-designated products to 

determine if an item is available that meets the standards. 

2. Acquisition Planning and Specifications 

FAR 7.103 and EO 13693 require agency planners to consider energyefficient products and services, products containing energy-efficient standby 
52 

power devices, products containing recovered materials, biobased products, 

and environmentally preferable products and services. 

NRC personnel involved in planning for acquisitions must consider the use of 

green products from the initial stages of acquisition planning. Agency 

program offices must develop, review, and revise specifications, product 

descriptions, and standards during the acquisition planning stage to enhance 

the NRC’s procurement of designated recycled content products (i.e., CPG), 

EPEAT®-registered products, EnergyStar®- and FEMP-designated efficient 

products and appliances, USDA-designated biobased products 

(Biopreferred® program), environmentally preferable products, WaterSense 

and other water efficient products, products containing non- or lowerozone-depleting substances (i.e., SNAP), and products containing non- or 

low-toxic or hazardous constituents (e.g., non-VOC paint). 

During procurement planning, program office CORs and their contracting 

officers must also be involved jointly in the decision-making process. 

o They should review and address the following areas: 

− Identify green products required in the performance of the statement 

of work (SOW) or opportunities for “greening” the contract or order 

while maintaining the integrity of the work. 

− Review applicable sections of the GPP or consult with other sources 

of information, such as FAR Part 23, about procedures to follow and 

applicable clauses or provisions to use. 

− Include appropriate solicitation language, FAR and NRC clauses, and 

procedures in compliance with the NRC’s GPP. 

− Include relevant EPA-designated products, if any, that meet or exceed 

EPA’s recommended recycled content percentages unless there is 

written justification included in the contract file. 

− Include relevant USDA-designated biobased products, if any. 

 

− All appropriate solicitations and resulting contracts must include 

language notifying vendors that the NRC reserves the right to 

substitute or add designated recycled content products (i.e., CPG 

products list), EPEAT®-registered products, EnergyStar®- and FEMPdesignated efficient products and appliances, USDA-designated 

biobased products (Biopreferred® program), environmentally 

preferable products, WaterSense and other water efficient products, 

products containing non- or lower-ozone-depleting substances 

(i.e., SNAP), and products containing non- or low-toxic or hazardous 

constituents (e.g., non-VOC paint), if they become available during 

the course of the contract. 
53 

o The following language (or equivalent) may be used: 

− “The NRC and contractor may negotiate during the contract term to 

permit the substitution or addition of designated recycled content 

products (i.e., CPG), EPEAT®-registered products, EnergyStar®- and 

FEMP-designated energy efficient products and appliances, 

USDA-designated biobased products (Biopreferred® program), 

environmentally preferable products, WaterSense and other water 

efficient products, products containing non- or lower-ozone-depleting 

substances (i.e., SNAP), and products containing non- or low-toxic or 

hazardous constituents (e.g., non-VOC paint), when such products 

and services are readily available at a competitive cost and satisfy the 

NRC’s performance needs.” 

− Include appropriate NRC clauses in contracts or orders. 

3. Identifying Potential Qualified Vendors 

Program offices and contracting officers are encouraged to solicit businesses 

that demonstrate or adopt environmentally sound policies and systems, 

institute proper environmental management and auditing, disclose 

environmental information, and conform to environmental laws and 

regulations. 

4. Source Selection and Evaluations 

FAR 11.002 states that Federal agencies shall consider maximum practicable 

use of energy and water-efficient, low standby power, renewable energy 

technology, biobased, recycled content, and environmentally preferable 

products and services when developing source selection factors. 

o When evaluating acquisitions for products and services, contracting 

officers must give consideration to sustainable acquisition, including 

source selection factors in acquisitions that may include: 

− Energy-efficient and water-efficient services and products (including 

products containing energy-efficient standby power devices) 

(FAR Subpart 23.2). 

− Products and services that use renewable energy technologies 

(FAR Subpart 23.2). 

− Products containing recovered materials (FAR Subpart 23.4). 

− Biobased products (FAR Subpart 23.4). 

− Environmentally preferable products and services, including 

EPEAT®-registered electronic products and non- or low-toxic 

alternatives (FAR Subpart 23.7). 

− Non-ozone-depleting substances (FAR Subpart 23.8). 
54 

o Unless an exception applies and is documented by the requiring activity, 

executive agencies shall, to the maximum practicable, require the use of 

products and services when— 

− Developing, reviewing, or revising Federal and military specifications, 

product descriptions (including commercial item descriptions), and 

standards; 

− Describing government requirements for products and services; and 

− Developing source-selection factors. 

Some or all of the performance levels or performance specifications in a 

solicitation may be identified as targets rather than as fixed or minimum 

requirements. 

5. Balancing Environmental Considerations with Performance, Availability 

and Cost (Life-Cycle Cost Analysis) 

The NRC is encouraged to considered life-cycle cost analysis in making 

decisions about investments in products and services, and other projects to 

lower the agency’s costs and to reduce energy and water consumption. 

 

When comparing costs, CORs and COs should not focus exclusively on the 

initial price. Rather, they should calculate and compare total costs over the 

life of the item, which includes the initial cost along with maintenance, 

operating, insurance, disposal, replacement, safety and health, training, 

hazardous material management, and potential liability costs. Examining lifecycle costs can save money by ensuring the total cost of ownership is 

quantified before making purchasing decisions. 

The NRC recognizes that competition exists in pricing, the technical 

competence of suppliers, in their ability to make timely deliveries, and in the 

quality and performance, including environmental performance, of their 

products and services. Balancing these sometimes-competing factors means 

that initial cost is not the only consideration. It also means the government 

will sometimes pay more for higher performing goods and services, including 

those with superior environmental performance. Health, safety, and 

environmental attributes of the product throughout the entire life cycle should 

also be addressed in the procurement planning phase. The following 

attributes should be taken into consideration: extending product durability; 

allowing for easy disassembly, recycling, and remanufacturing; helping 

prevent pollution; energy efficiency and water efficiency; and resource 

conservation. 

Reference: 

FEMP Life-Cycle Cost Analysis

E. Justifications 

FAR 23.404 states that agency APP programs must require that 100 percent of 

purchases of EPA and USDA-designated products and items contain recovered 
55 

material or biobased content. If a recycled content, biobased, or energy-efficient 

product (when purchasing energy-efficient items) is not purchased, a written 

justification providing the basis shall be included in the contract file. The 

contracting officer (CO) must maintain copies of justifications in contract files. 

1. If Not Procuring Recycled Products: 

Section 6002 of EPA’s RCRA and Section 9002 of USDA‘s FSRIA state that 

the decision not to procure recycled content and biobased products shall be 

based on a determination that such items: 

− Are not reasonably available within a reasonable period of time; 

− Fail to meet the performance standards set forth in the applicable 

specifications; 

− Fail to meet the reasonable performance standards of the procuring 

agencies; or 

− Are only available at an unreasonable price. 

2. If Not Procuring Energy-Efficient Products: 

− Section 104 of the EPAct states that the decision not to procure 

EnergyStar®- or FEMP-designated energy-efficient products shall be 

based on a determination that an EnergyStar® product or FEMPdesignated product is not cost effective over the life of the product, taking 

energy cost savings into account, or not reasonably available to meet the 

functional requirements of the agency. 

− Exemptions: 

FAR 23.204 states that an agency is not required to procure an EnergyStar®- 

or FEMP-designated product if the head of the agency (Office of the 

Executive Director for Operations [EDO]) determines in writing that: (1) no 

EnergyStar®- or FEMP-designated product is reasonably available that meets 

the functional requirements of the agency, or (2) no EnergyStar®- or FEMPdesignated product is cost effective over the life of the product, taking energy 

cost savings into account. 

F. Contractors 

 

The buy-recycled requirements apply to contractors when they are purchasing or 

supplying EPA-designated products for use in the performance of an NRC 

contract. COs must include the appropriate FAR clauses or provisions and may 

make reference to the GPP. 

Contracts will require that all contractors providing services on site at NRC 

facilities are required to buy “green compliant products” for their work performed 

on site. The supplies and materials needed to complete their work must meet 

biobased and recycled content requirements and be energy efficient when 

possible. If the contractor refuses to use a product that meets the guidelines, 

they must supply the NRC a justification stating why the product will not meet the 

requirement for which it is intended. The COR may approve this deviation in 
56 

writing and keep the information in the COR’s contract file with a copy to the CO 

for the official contract file. 

V. PROMOTION PROGRAM

The NRC’s Office of Administration is responsible for actively promoting this GPP and 

performing or facilitating outreach and training. Internal promotion may include, but is not 

limited to: articles in newsletters or other references; creating a Web site on green 

purchasing; making vendors of recycled content products aware of this GPP and the 

NRC’s recycling program; and educating offices about FAR Part 23 and other Federal 

green purchasing rules requirements. 

VI. TRAINING 

Training is conducted by a variety of methods, including in-house training sessions, COR 

seminars, online training or information materials provided by GSA, USDA, EPA or other 

Federal agencies, and traditional classroom-style courses provided by commercial 

training vendors. 

In accordance with EO 13693, each agency shall ensure that all personnel whose 

actions affected by the EOs receive initial awareness training as well as necessary 

refresher training on the goals of the EO and any related instructions, including the 

environmental impacts of the employees’ actions. Therefore, all affected employees 

should take necessary training as approved by their immediate supervisors. 

The NRC’s COs and CSs are required to take annual training in green purchasing and 

be familiar with this GPP, including related Web sites with designated product lists. The 

agency will provide guidance to employees on what training constitutes meeting the 

annual training requirement. Cardholders are expected to be familiar with the agency’s 

Purchase Card Handbook and GPP.

VII. PROCEDURES FOR ANNUAL REVIEW AND MONITORING

A. Monitoring 

 

ADM will: (1) monitor procurement of green purchases, (2) update the agency’s 

policies and procedures for making green purchases, (3) ensure the agency’s 

automated acquisition system includes green clauses and provisions, (4) collect 

vendor-generated reporting for USDA biobased products (FAR 52.223-3), 

(5) report purchasing of green products and services, as required, (6) incorporate 

environmental considerations into procurement management oversight reviews, 

and g) ensure corrective action is taken to correct deficiencies identified in 

assessments, reviews, and audits. 

B. Reports 

Sustainability Plan – Agencies are also evaluated on how they demonstrate 

continuous progress towards implementing additional statutory or EO targets and 

goals reflected in their annual Sustainability Plans, such as fleet management 

and green buildings. Agency Sustainability Plans, which are required by EO 
57 

13693 are due in June of each year and are posted publicly on the OMB MAX 

Web site. 

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Report – Section 6002 of the 

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 requires the OFPP to report to 

Congress biennially on the actions taken by Federal agencies and the progress 

made in the implementation of Section 6002. The OFPP and OFEE annually 

submit a data call to agencies on their purchasing of recycled content and 

environmentally preferable products and services. The NRC is responsible for 

tracking the agency’s purchasing of designated recycled content products and 

reporting this information to the OFPP and the OFEE. 

VIII. ANNUAL RECOGNITION PROGRAMS

 A. GreenGov Presidential Awards Program 

 

The GreenGov Presidential Awards Program was developed to recognize 

Federal employees (civilian and military) and their facilities or installations for 

efforts resulting in significant positive impact on the environment in specific 

categories. This program recognizes outstanding affirmative procurement, waste 

reduction, recycling, fleet management, energy reduction, electronic stewardship 

and sustainable design success stories that can serve as an example for other 

Federal employees and facilities to follow. Green purchasing is one of the 

categories in the Greengov Presidential Awards. 

 

B. Other Environmental Awards 

The Presidential Award for Leadership in Federal Energy Management is given 

to an agency team(s) that excelled in the use of energy efficiency and 

management tools. Winners of the Presidential Award for Leadership in Federal 

Energy Management are selected only from the nominations submitted by 

FEMP. One of the categories included in the award is implementation; this 

category includes the use of energy-efficiency tools such as purchasing energyefficient products, using sustainable building design, and developing model 

leases. See FEMP Awards. 

C. Non-monetary NRC Environmental Stewardship Awards

The agency may, at its discretion, provide non-monetary awards to employees 

who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in planning or implementing 

programs that include environmental considerations and green purchasing in 

support of the agency’s overall APP program. 

IX. WASTE PREVENTION AND RECYCLING PROGRAMS

 A. Waste Prevention 

Each Federal agency is required to initiate a program to promote cost-effective 

waste prevention and recycling of reusable materials in all its facilities (including 

the acquisition and management of all leased space and in the construction and 
58 

improvements of buildings), consistent with applicable State and local recycling 

requirements. The NRC will implement this mandate as follows: 

• Employees must consider all waste prevention opportunities such as 

recyclability, reusability, and repairability when acquiring products and 

services. 

• COs must include the provision at FAR 52.223-10, Waste Reduction 

Program, in all solicitations and contracts for contractor operation of 

government-owned or government-leased facilities, and support services at 

government-owned or operated facilities. 

 

B. Recycling Programs 

The NRC recycles the following items: paper, aluminum, tin and steel cans, glass 

and plastic bottles, cardboard, laser toner cartridges, ink jet cartridges, NiCad, 

lead acid and lithium batteries, newspapers, and wood pallets. Unneeded 

supplies that are in new or nearly new condition are collected for reuse (ADM 

Recycling Program).

At present, there is no Federal mandate to recycle e-waste. However, some 

electronics (such as color cathode-ray tubes [CRTs] computer monitors, color 

CRT TV tubes, and smaller items such as cell phones and other “hand-helds”) 

test “hazardous” under Federal law. If so, they are subject to special handling 

requirements under Federal law, subject to certain exemptions. EPA encourages 

reuse and recycling of used electronics, including those that test “hazardous.” To 

facilitate more reuse and recycling of these products, EPA has less stringent 

management requirements for products bound for reuse and recycling (Recycling 

Regulations and Standards). 

X. CONSERVATION MEASURES AND “BUYING GREEN”

A. Energy Efficiency in Lease Provisions

When entering into leases, including the renegotiation or extension of existing 

leases, the agency shall incorporate lease provisions that encourage energy and 

water efficiency. The NRC shall comply with the energy conservation guidelines 

set forth in Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR) Part 436, 

“Federal Procurement of Energy Efficient Products,” and EISA (2007), Section 

435 that prohibits Federal agencies, effective December 19, 2010, from leasing 

buildings that have not earned an EnergyStar® label, unless exempted per EISA 

criteria. Also, the NRC shall ensure that all new lease contracts are in 

conformance with the policies prescribed in Section 101-20.107 of the Federal 

Property Management Regulations (41 CFR. 101-20-107). 

 B. Distributed Generation and Electrical Load Reduction Measures 

The agency shall coordinate with utility companies to minimize overall use of 

electricity and manage electricity consumption during emergencies. 
59 

The EPAct of 2005 addresses energy production in the United States, including: 

(1) energy efficiency, (2) renewable energy, (3) oil and gas, (4) coal, (5) Tribal 

energy, (6) nuclear matters and security, (7) vehicles and motor fuels, including 

ethanol, (8) hydrogen, (9) electricity, (10) energy tax incentives, (11) hydropower 

and geothermal energy, and (12) climate change technology (EPAct of 2005). 
60 

Appendix A 

Justification for Purchasing Other Than 

USDA-Designated Biobased Products 

A justification is required when purchasing other than a United States Department of Agriculture 

(USDA)-designated biobased product (with minimum biobased content). See: 

http://www.biopreferred.gov/ProductCategories.aspx.

For purchases below the micro-purchase threshold, the cardholder is required to include the 

basis for not buying a USDA-designated biobased product in the purchase card file or log. 

For purchases over the micro-purchase threshold, the Contracting Officer’s Representative 

(COR) and the CO must document the joint determination to purchase other-than-a-USDAdesignated biobased product. 

Check the applicable justification: 

___ Products are not reasonably available within a reasonable period of time. 

___ Products could not meet the performance standards set forth in the applicable 

specifications. (Attach a description of the performance standards and explain why an 

environmentally preferable product or service or a fuel and energy-efficient product will not 

meet those standards). 

___ Products are only available at an unreasonable price (including not cost effective over the 

life of the product. 

Please provide below supporting rationale and justification for purchasing other-than-a 

USDA-designated biobased product: 

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________ __________________ 

COR Name/Title Date 

____________________________________ __________________ 

Contract Specialist/CO/Title Date 
61 

Appendix B

Justification for Purchasing Other-Than 

EPA-Designated Recycled Content Products 

In accordance with FAR 23.405(b)(2), when an exemption is used for an EPA-designated item 

or the procurement of a product containing recovered material does not meet or exceed the 

EPA recovered material content guidelines, the contracting officer shall place a written 

justification in the contract file. 

For purchases below the micro-purchase threshold, the cardholder, purchasing agent, or 

contract specialist is required to include the basis for not buying an EPA-designated recycled 

content product in the purchase card file or log. 

For purchases over the micro-purchase threshold, the Contracting Officer’s Representative 

(COR) and the Contracting Officer (CO) must document the joint determination not to purchase 

an EPA-designated recycled content product. 

Check the applicable justification: 

___ Products are not reasonably available within a reasonable period of time. 

___ Products could not meet the performance standards set forth in the applicable 

 specifications. (Attach a description of the performance standards and explain why an 

 environmentally preferable product or service or a fuel or energy-efficient product will not 

 meet those standards). 

___ Products are only available at an unreasonable price (including not cost effective over 

the life of the product). 

Please provide below supporting rationale or justification for purchasing other than an EPAdesignated recycled content product: 

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________ __________________ 

COR Name/Title Date 

____________________________________ __________________ 

Contract Specialist/CO/Title Date 
62 

Appendix C

Justification for Purchasing Other Than 

EnergyStar® or Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP)-Designated 

Energy-Efficient Products 

Section 104 of the Energy Policy Act of 1992 states that the decision not to procure an 

EnergyStar®- or Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP)-designated energy-efficient 

product shall be based on a determination that an EnergyStar® product or FEMP-designated 

product is not cost effective over the life of the product taking energy cost savings into account, 

or not reasonably available to meet the functional requirements of the agency. See: 

EnergyStar® products: https://www.energystar.gov/productfinder / FEMP-designated products. 

− For purchases below the micro-purchase threshold, the cardholder is required to 

include the basis for not buying an EnergyStar® or FEMP-designated energy-efficient 

product in the purchase card file or log. 

− For purchases over the micro-purchase threshold, the Contracting Officer’s 

Representative (COR) and the Contracting Officer (CO) must document the joint 

determination to purchase other than for not buying an EnergyStar® or FEMPdesignated energy-efficient product. 

Check the applicable justification: 

___ Products are not reasonably available to meet agency requirements. 

___ Products are not cost effective over the life of the product, taking energy cost savings 

into account. 

Please provide below supporting rationale or justification for not purchasing an Environmental 

Protection Agency-designated recycled content product: 

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________ __________________ 

COR Name/Title Date 

____________________________________ __________________ 

Contract Specialist/CO/Title Date 
63 

Appendix D

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Green Purchasing Requirements 

The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) contains the following requirements relating to green 

purchasing that must be considered: 

• FAR 2.101 – Biobased product defined – Contains definitions for biobased, 

energy-efficient, energy-efficient standby power device, environmentally preferable, 

ozone-deleting substances, and recovered material (Subpart 2.1—Definitions). 

 FAR 4.302 – Paper Products (Subpart 4.3—Paper Documents). 

• FAR 7.103(p) – Requires Federal agency heads to prescribe procedures for ensuring 

that agency planners— 

(1) specify needs for printing and writing paper consistent with the 30 percent postconsumer fiber minimum content standards; (2) comply with the policy in FAR 11.002(d) 

about procurement of: biobased products; products containing recovered materials; 

environmentally preferable products and services (including EPEAT®-registered 

electronic products, non- or low-toxic alternatives); EnergyStar®- and FEMP-designated 

products; and renewable-energy, water-efficient, and non-ozone-depleting products; 

(3) comply with the Guiding Principles for Federal Leadership in High-Performance and 

Sustainable Buildings (Guiding Principles), for the design, construction, renovation, 

repair, or deconstruction of Federal buildings; and (4) Require contractor compliance 

with Federal environmental requirements, when the contractor is operating governmentowned facilities or vehicles, to the same extent as the agency would be required to 

comply if the agency operated the facilities or vehicles (Guiding Principles MOU). 

• FAR 7.105(b)(17) – Requires written acquisition plans to discuss all applicable 

environmental and energy conservation objectives associated with the acquisition 

(Subpart 7.1—Acquisition Plans). 

• FAR Part 10 – Ensure maximum practicable use of recovered materials (see FAR 

Subpart 23.4) and promote energy conservation and efficiency. 

• FAR 11.002(d)(1) – Requires agencies to consider maximum practicable use of energy 

and water, low standby power, biobased, recycled content, and environmentally 

preferable products and services when developing, reviewing, or revising specifications, 

product descriptions (including commercial item descriptions) and standards, describing 

government requirements for supplies and services, and developing source selection 

factors. 

When agencies acquire products and services (as identified in FAR Part 23), various 

statutes and Executive Orders require consideration of sustainable acquisition (see 

FAR Subpart 23.1), including— 

(1) Energy-efficient and water-efficient services and products (including products 

containing energy-efficient standby power devices)(see Far Subpart 23.2); 
64 

(2) Products and services that use renewable energy technologies (see FAR Subpart 

23.2); (3) Products containing recovered materials (see FAR Subpart 23.4); (4) Biobased 

products (see FAR Subpart 23.4); (5) Environmentally preferable products and services, 

including EPEAT®-registered electronic products and non- or low-toxic alternatives (see 

FAR Subpart 23.7); and (6) non-ozone-depleting substances (see FAR Subpart 23.8). 

• FAR 11.302 – Acceptable Material 

Postconsumer material, recovered material, and postconsumer fiber defined.

− Agencies must not require virgin material or supplies comprised of or manufactured 

using virgin material unless compelled by law or regulation or unless virgin material 

is vital for safety or meeting performance requirements of the contract. 

− When acquiring other than commercial items, agencies must require offerors to 

identify used, reconditioned, or remanufactured supplies, or unused former 

government surplus property proposed for use under the contract. 

− When acquiring commercial items, the contracting officer must consider the 

customary practices in the industry for the item being acquired. 

− The contracting officer may require offerors to submit additional information on the 

recycled or biobased content or related standards. The request for the information 

must be included in the solicitation. When acquiring commercial items, limit the 

information to the maximum extent practicable to that available under normal 

commercial practices. 

− For biobased products, agencies may not require, as a condition of purchase of 

such products, the vendor or manufacturer to provide more data than would 

typically be provided by other business entities offering products for sale to the 

agency, other than data confirming the biobased content of a product (7 CFR 

3201.8) (FAR Subpart 11.3—Acceptable Material). 

FAR Part 23 – Environment, Energy, and Water Efficiency, Renewable Energy Technologies, 

Occupational Safety, and Drug-Free Workplace, states that it is policy to acquire competitively, 

in a cost-effective manner, products that meet reasonable performance requirements and that 

are composed of the highest percentage of recovered materials practicable. FAR Part 23 

requires that Federal agencies purchase products that are EnergyStar® labeled or meet the 

requirements of Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) energy efficiency 

recommendations or FEMP low standby power recommendations. FAR Part 23 also states that 

Federal agencies must maximize the use of environmentally preferable products and services. 

• FAR Subpart 23.4 – (FAR Subpart 23.4—Use of Recovered Materials and Biobased 

Products).

The following FAR Part 52 clauses and provisions apply to green purchasing and shall be 

inserted in solicitations and contracts, as appropriate. 
65 

As prescribed in: 

• FAR 4.303, insert the following clause: FAR 52.204-4 – Printed or Copied Double-Sided 

Postconsumer Fiber Paper. 

• FAR 23.406(a), insert the following provision: FAR 52.223-1 Biobased Product 

Certification.

• FAR 23.406(b), insert the following clause FAR 52.223-2 Affirmative Procurement of 

Biobased Products Under Service and Construction Contracts.

• FAR 23.303, insert the following clause: FAR 52.223-3 Hazardous Material Identification 

and Material Safety Data.

• FAR 23.406(c), insert the following provision: FAR 52.223-4 Recovered Material 

Certification.

• FAR 23.1005, insert the following clause: FAR 52.223-5 Pollution Prevention and Rightto-Know Information.

• FAR 23.602, insert the following clause: FAR 52.223-7 Notice of Radioactive Materials.

• FAR 23.406(d), insert the following clause: FAR 52.223-9 Estimate of Percentage of 

Recovered Material Content for EPA-Designated Items.

• FAR 23.705(a), insert the following clause in solicitations and contracts: FAR 52.223-10 

Waste Reduction Program

• FAR 23.804(a), insert the following clause in solicitations and contracts: 

FAR 52.223-11 Ozone-Depleting Substances.

• FAR 23.804(b), insert the following clause in solicitations and contracts: FAR 52.223-12 

Refrigeration Equipment and Air Conditioners.

• FAR 23.206, insert the following clause in solicitations and contracts: FAR 52.223-15 

Energy Efficiency in Energy-Consuming Products.

• FAR 23.705(b)(1), insert the following clause in solicitations and contracts. 

• FAR 23.406(e), insert the following clause: FAR 52.223-17 Affirmative Procurement of 

EPA-designated Items in Service and Construction Contracts.

• FAR 23.903, insert the following clause: FAR 52.223-19 Compliance with Environmental 

Management Systems.
66 

Appendix E

Procedures for Vendor Estimation, Certification, and Verification

 

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that procuring agencies require 

vendors to provide an estimate of the total recycled content of their products and certify that the 

recycled content meets the minimum content standards in the agency’s solicitation documents. 

EPA also recommends that agencies establish procedures to verify vendor estimates and 

certifications. Agencies should verify these estimates and certifications through their normal 

quality control assurance procedures. 

 

Estimation

Contracting officers (COs) shall insert the clause at FAR 52.223-9 – “Estimate of Percentage of 

Recovered Material Content for EPA-Designated Products,” in solicitations and contracts 

exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold that include the provision at FAR 52.223-4 – 

“Recovered Material Certification. Minimum content standards for designated items shall be 

specified in the statement of work and vendors responding to solicitations containing 

EPA-designated products must meet the minimum content standards by the end of contract 

performance. Contractual data reporting shall be specified in accordance with FAR 52.223-5 – 

“Pollution Prevention and Right-to-Know Information.” 

Certification

COs must ensure that vendors provide written certification in their Online Representations and 

Certifications (ORCA). Currently, the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) contains a 

“Recovered Material Certification” provision at FAR 52.223-4, which COs shall insert into 

solicitations for recycled content products and into solicitations that will require the use of 

EPA-designated products during performance of the contract. This “Recovered Material 

Certification” provision shall be placed in an ORCA. The provision is as follows: “The offeror 

certifies, by signing this offer, that recovered materials, as defined in FAR Part 23, will be used 

as required by the applicable specifications.” 

Verification

The Acquisition Management Division will periodically review vendor certification documents 

and information as part of the annual review and monitoring process. Such reviews shall enable 

the NRC to verify the contractors’ compliance with Executive Order (EO) 13693. 

Exclusions

Federal supply sources, such as the General Services Administration, Government Printing 

Office, and Defense General Supply Center, have established their own estimation, certification, 

and verification procedures for EPA-designated products. Therefore, program offices procuring 

EPA-designated products through these supply sources are not required to conduct 

independent estimation, certification, and verification. 
67 

Appendix F

Federal Sources of Recycled Content and Environmentally 

Preferable Products 

Thousands of recycled content and environmentally preferable products are available to 

procuring agencies and their contractors through established Federal supply sources, and new 

items are continuously being added. Federal sources of Environmental Protection Agency 

(EPA)-designated products, and other recycled content and environmentally preferable 

products, are listed below. 

GSA Federal Supply Service 

General Services Administration (GSA) produces several publications, as indicated below, to 

assist customers in identifying and requisitioning products. 

GSA Federal Supply Service (FSS) Publications 

Publication Description 

GSA Supply Catalog Contains information on thousands of products 

available through the FSS, including hundreds of 

recycled content and environmentally preferable 

products (highlighted in green for easy identification). 

Includes information on requisitioning these products 

through GSA. 

Environmental Products and Services 

Guide 

A separate listing of hundreds of recycled content 

and environmentally preferable products. 

Customer Assistance Guide A detailed introduction to the FSS. 

Also contains complete listings of regional customer 

service directors, customer supply centers, and 

commodity centers. 

Marketips A bimonthly bulletin frequently containing information 

about new recycled content and environmentally 

preferable products being introduced. 

Includes customer training seminars scheduled 

through GSA’s regional offices. 

In addition, GSA provides “GSA Advantage!,” an online shopping mall that offers the 

convenience of purchasing more than one million products and services, including recycled 

content and environmentally preferable products, to Federal employees. (See 

www.gsaadvantage.gov)

Government Printing Office 

A variety of recycled content printing and writing papers are available through the Government 

Printing Office (GPO). Requirements officials and program officials should work through their 

agency field printing organizations to request recycled paper for publications produced through 

GPO. See: http://www.gpo.gov/ and http://www.gpo.gov/customers/store.htm.
68 

UNICOR (FAR 8.6) – Federal Prison Industries, Inc., also referred to as UNICOR, is a 

self-supporting, wholly-owned Government corporation of the District of Columbia that provides 

training and employment for prisoners through the sale of supplies and services to government 

agencies. UNICOR provides everything from computer furniture, circuit board assemblies, and 

computer demanufacturing to exterior signage, toner cartridges, environmental testing, textiles, 

printing and laundry services. See: http://www.unicor.gov. 

AbilityOne (FAR 8.7) – AbilityOne creates jobs and training opportunities for people who are 

blind or who have other severe disabilities, empowering them to lead more productive and 

independent lives. Its primary means of doing so is by requiring government agencies to 

purchase selected products and services from nonprofit organizations employing such 

individuals. See: 

https://www.acquisition.gov/sites/default/files/current/far/html/Subpart%208_7.html.

Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) – DLA Aviation’s Hazardous Minimization (HAZMIN) and 

Green Products Program was established at Richmond, VA, to support the Department of 

Defense’s (DoD) overall sustainability policy issued in 2010. DoD defines sustainability as “the 

capacity to continue the mission without compromise. It is the ability to operate into the future 

without decline – either in the mission or the natural and manmade systems that support it.” 

The DLA HAZMIN and Green Products team under the Aviation Supply Chain’s 

Engineering Directorate has the mission to support DoD’s Sustainability Policy by helping 

DLA’s military customers to “Buy Green.” The team provides technical assistance and 

logistics guidance to its military service customers with respect to pollution prevention 

programs, green products, and overall sustainability issues. 

Examples include: 

− Recycled content products. 

− Non- or low-toxic alternatives (non-VOC products). 

− Energy and water-conserving products. 

− Biobased products. 

− Alternatives to hazardous items such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. 

The DLA has hundreds of environmental products in its supply system ranging from 

citrus-based degreasers to natural conservation products. Examples of green products by DLA 

category include petroleum, oils, and lubricants; remanufactured and recycled laser printer toner 

cartridges; reusable batteries and battery accessories; aircraft cleaning compounds; recycled 

lumber products; and natural conservation products. More information on these is available at: 

http://www.aviation.dla.mil/. 

Biobased Products Information References 

− http://biobasedproducts.com/info/

− http://www.biopreferred.gov/BioPreferred/
69 

Appendix G

Environmental Labeling and Certification Programs 

In addition to reviewing Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) products through the 

Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines

(CPG) (http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/tools/cpg/index.htm), there are various 

certification programs and environmental labeling to review EPP products, as follows: 

Certified Wood – “Certified wood” is a relatively new option for construction Project Managers. 

There are no legal requirements for its use, but sustainably grown and harvested wood is 

considered an environmentally preferable product that is encouraged for purchase. Construction 

projects seeking a LEEDTM (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building 

System rating (http://www.usgbc.org/leed#rating) can get credit for using wood products 

certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). The two best-known certification systems for 

wood products in the United States are the FSC program (http://www.fsc.org/index.htm) 

(http://www.fsc.org/controlled-wood.40.htm) and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) 

(http://www.sfiprogram.org/). Each program has its own standards and certification processes. 

Neither system is preferred or endorsed by EPA or any other Federal agency. 

Consumers Union – Evaluates the growing number of environmental labels against objective 

criteria to measure the validity of the label and the independence of the standard setting and 

certification organizations that are developing them. See GreenerChoices.org | Eco-labels 

center. 

EnerGuide – Establishes energy efficiency guidelines for hundreds of consumer products. 

Environmental Choice – Establishes environmental standards and awards its eco-label to 

products meeting its standards; it currently has more than 20 standards and hundreds of 

certified products. 

Forest Stewardship Certification (FSC) – Sets standards for “forest friendly” practices and, 

through independent verifiers, certifies forests that are managed consistent with its standards. 

Forest-based products that originate from FSC-certified forests are also eligible for FSC 

certification. See: http://www.fsc.org/index.htm. 

Forest Stewardship Council Certified Products – For FSC-certified products, see: 

http://www.fsc.org/choose-fsc.195.htm. 

The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute – The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute is 

an independent, non-profit organization that oversees the GREENGUARD Certification 

Program, including the establishment of acceptable standards for indoor products and testing 

protocols. The institute’s goal is to improve public health and quality of life by helping 

manufacturers build better and safer products. GREENGUARD has been accredited as an 

American National Standards Institute Standards Developer and will submit the GREENGUARD 

Certification Standards for Low Emitting Products to be approved by a consensus body and 

documented as American National Standards. 

GREENGUARD develops standards for all facets of indoor air quality, including indoor source 

emissions, indoor pollutant standards, microbial resistance performance, building construction 
70 

and operations, as well as standards for source emission for vehicles and aircraft. See: 

www.greenguard.org and http://www.greenguard.org/en/QuickSearch.aspx. 

Green Seal – Establishes environmental standards and awards its “green seal of approval” to 

products meeting its standards. Green Seal has created environmental standards for more than 

30 product categories and regularly publishes its Choose Green Reports, which evaluates the 

environmental impact of products and recommends products that appear to meet its standards. 

See: www.greenseal.org. 

PowerSmart – Identifies energy-efficient products and strategies to reduce energy consumption. 

See: www.bchydro.com. 

Scientific Certification Systems – Provides independent verification of environmental claims. 

See: www.scscertified.com. 

Sustainable Forest Initiative (SFI) Program – SFI was adopted in 1994 by the American Forest 

and Paper Association, a national trade association for the forest, paper, and wood products 

industries. The program’s focus is on improving the forestry practices of industries and on 

promoting sustainable forestry among landowners. Accreditation is by third-party auditors. 

Annual surveillance audits are required for anyone using its on-product label. 

See: http://www.sfiprogram.org/. 

For additional labeling and certification information, see the following Web sites: 

− http://www.epa.gov 

− http://www.abilityone.org/

− http://www.energystar.gov/

− http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/regulating/labels/product-labels.htm
71 

Appendix H

Sample Custodial Contract Green Language for USDA-Biobased Products 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides sample templates for biobased products available 

on its Web site to assist other Federal agencies at: 

http://www.dm.usda.gov/procurement/programs/biobased/contracttemplates.htm. 

Contract Templates for Biobased Products: 

• Custodial Services

This is a sample template for “Custodial Services” that incorporates language on the 

purchasing of biobased products. It provides contracting language for Section C 

“Statement of Work (SOW),” Section L “Instructions to Offerors,” and Section M 

“Evaluation Factors for Award,” in a custodial contract using biobased products. The 

template is provided for informational purposes. It may be revised to reflect additional or 

unique tasks peculiar to an activity’s custodial operation. See Web sites: HTML | PDF | 

Word. 

Note: The examples provided below at Sections H.1 through H.3 have been slightly 

modified from the original template language provided by USDA. 

• Maintenance and Repair

This is a sample SOW that incorporates language on the purchasing of biobased 

products. The SOW is provided for informational purposes. It may be revised to reflect 

additional or unique tasks peculiar to services for carpentry and masonry - floors, tiles, 

carpet, baseboards, walls, ceilings, trim, doors, stairs, shades, cabinets, shutters, 

molding, roofing, gutters, sidewalks, patios, windows, screen and signs. See Web sites: 

HTML | PDF | Word. 

• Vehicle Maintenance

This is a sample SOW that incorporates language on the purchasing of biobased 

products. The SOW is provided for informational purposes. It may be revised to reflect 

additional or unique tasks peculiar to an activity’s vehicle maintenance operation. See 

Web sites: HTML | PDF | Word. 
72 

Appendix H.1

“Sample” Statement of Work (SOW) with Biobased Language 

This is a sample statement of work that incorporates language on the purchasing of biobased 

products. The statement of work is provided for informational purposes. It may be revised to 

reflect additional or unique tasks peculiar to an agency’s custodial operation.

Background

Congress passed a law to encourage the purchase of biobased products: the Farm Security and 

Rural Investment Act, Section 9002. Federal agencies must purchase designated biobased 

products and shall establish agency preferential procurement programs for such products. 

Benefits of biobased products are to: enhance the nation’s energy security by substituting 

domestically produced biobased products for fossil fuel-based products derived from imported 

oil and natural gas; improve demands for biobased products to increase demand for agricultural 

commodities, which are the feedstock of biobased products; spur the development of valueadded agricultural processing and manufacturing in rural communities, which would create new 

jobs and income in rural regions; and establish a healthier environment for users. 

Supplies, Materials, and Equipment to be Provided by the Contractor

Unless otherwise specified herein, the contractor shall furnish all supplies, materials, and 

equipment necessary for the performance of work under this contract. All supplies and materials 

shall be of a type and quality that conform to applicable Federal specifications and standards. 

All supplies, materials, and equipment to be used in the performance of work described herein 

are subject to the approval of the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). 

The contractor must submit to the COR a list of products to be used in the performance of its 

work. The contractor shall not use any materials, chemicals, or compounds that the COR 

determines to be unsuitable to perform the required work. The contractor shall use products and 

material made from biobased materials (e.g., biobased cleaners, biobased degreasers, 

biobased laundry detergent) to the maximum extent possible. For the biobased content products 

evaluation, products proposed for use under this contract must conform to the U.S. Department 

of Agriculture’s Designated Biobased Products List. If requested in the contract, contractors 

shall provide data for their biobased solvents and cleaners to document the level of biobased 

content. Any biobased product that the COR suspects does not meet U.S. Nuclear Regulatory 

Commission (NRC) specifications or standards shall be tested at the contractor’s expense by an 

independent laboratory qualified to perform such tests. A copy of the laboratory report of 

findings shall be submitted to the COR. These products shall meet the requirements established 

by applicable Federal specifications and standards or be considered unacceptable for use. 

Biobased Products to Be Provided by the Contractor

1. 

2. 

3. 

See: http://www.biopreferred.gov/BioPreferred/faces/catalog/Catalog.xhtml. 
73 

In addition, trash bags must contain at least 20 percent recycled post-consumer recycled 

material of which at least 5 percent is household post-consumer recycled material. Products that 

do not meet the mandatory specifications or for which the appropriate information has not been 

submitted will be disqualified from further consideration. See 

http://industries.ul.com/environment.

Required Submittals and Reports

All offerors shall submit with their initial proposal a complete list of products that are to be used 

in carrying out the requirements of the contract. Additionally, the winning contractor on each 

anniversary date of the contract shall submit a complete list of products purchased to carry out 

the contract requirements. The products list shall be organized into the following categories: 

designated biobased products, non-designated biobased products, and all other “green” 

products (e.g., recycled content products, energy- and water-efficient products, products using 

renewable energy, and alternatives to hazardous or toxic chemicals). The offeror shall list the 

volume to be used and total cost for each individual product in each category. This information 

will be used for reporting purposes and to determine the reasonableness of cost. 

Once a biobased item is designated as part of the existing contract, the contractor may use the 

remainder of the biobased products that was originally purchased to carry out the requirements 

of the contract. Once the product has been completely consumed, the contractor shall replace 

that product with a product that meets the requirements and specifications of the designated 

Item. The Contracting Officer (CO) must inform the contractor and COR when an item has been 

designated. Additionally, the contractor will provide supporting documentation if there is an 

upward cost impact so that contract pricing can be adjusted accordingly. Likewise, the contract 

will be adjusted downward if so warranted. To the greatest extent feasible, the contractor shall 

also use biobased products. 

a. Cleaning Operations and Stewardship Plan. This plan must be reviewed and updated 

annually, and as required by the CO. The plan must contain and define the following 

elements: 

(1) The contractor’s written policy stating its commitment to the use of biobased 

products, employee health and safety, and sound environmental management 

practices. 

(2) Proposed biobased cleaning-products that must be selected in accordance with 

the criteria included in this solicitation. At a minimum, the plan must identify 

products by brand name for each of the above product types. 

NOTE: Contractors may propose more than one product within a designated item 

and propose a product or products addressing more than one designated item. 

(3) Once this list of products has been approved by the CO, the contractor is 

responsible for using only those approved cleaning chemical products in the 

building. If, for some reason, the product is found later to be ineffective, or the 

contractor would otherwise like to propose an alternative product, either the 

contractor or CO may propose for consideration an “equal” product. The CO is 

the final decision maker for such substitutions and must approve each in writing. 

(4) Product use and cleaning guides that define standard operating procedures for 

instructing staff in the following areas: the proper use, storage, and disposal of 
74 

cleaning products; proper cleaning procedures; proper operation of equipment; 

and other procedures and instructions to accomplish work under this contract.;. 

(5) The contractor shall define proper procedures for the storage of hazardous 

materials in conformance with good housekeeping practices, the National Fire 

Prevention Association Code, and applicable Federal and municipal regulations. 

The plan also must define proper procedures for the identification and disposal of 

hazardous wastes in accordance with Federal Resource Conservation and 

Recovery Act regulations and the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, 

Title 20, Subpart E before use with personnel. 

b. Green Purchasing Plan. The contractor must implement the requirements of the NRC’s 

Green Purchasing Plan for the purchasing of biobased products to the maximum extent 

possible. The contractor shall detail how they intend to keep abreast of the development 

and increasing availability of biobased products and how any new or improved products 

will be incorporated on an ongoing basis into contract performance. 

 

Product Demonstration, Employee Training, and Technical Assistance

The NRC believes that a demonstration of how to use the products, an effective training 

program for the products selected, and technical assistance are central to the selection and 

eventual success of purchasing and using designated biobased products. The NRC will look for 

vendors who will: (1) demonstrate their products, and (2) when selected, offer effective training 

to all of our custodial staff and be available with technical assistance to troubleshoot problems. 

Quality Control Program 

The contractor shall institute a complete quality control program to ensure that the products 

required by this contract are supplied or used, as specified. The overall goal of the program 

should be to identify and correct any problems that may exist before they are identified by or 

reported to the COR and the building-management staff. As a minimum, the program shall 

include: 

o An inspection system covering all the services required with a comprehensive 

checklist to be used to inspect contract performance during scheduled and 

unscheduled inspections, and the name(s) of the individuals who will be 

performing the inspections. 

o A system for identifying and correcting deficiencies and a pattern of deficiencies 

in the quality or quantity of services provided before the level of performance 

becomes unacceptable and government inspectors point out the deficiencies. 

o A file of all inspections conducted by the contractor and corrective actions taken. 

This should include follow-up inspections to ensure that corrective action was 

appropriate, complete, and timely. This documentation shall be organized in a 

logical manner, kept current, and made available to the COR and the CO during 

the term of the contract. 
75 

Appendix H.2

“Sample” Section L, Instructions to Offerors 

for Purchase of Biobased Products 

Sample Section L – Instructions to Offerors 

This is a sample Section L that incorporates language on the purchasing and use of 

biobased products. This is provided for informational purposes only. It may be revised to 

reflect additional or other instructions peculiar to an agency’s operation. 

In the technical proposal, the offeror shall identify the biobased products to be purchased and 

used under this contract. For each biobased product, the offeror shall specify the percentage of 

biobased content, and, for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)-designated biobased 

content products, the offeror shall demonstrate that the products to be used under this contract 

will contain the percentage specified in the USDA recommendations or the highest level of 

biobased material practicable, consistent with USDA‘s recommended percentages of biobased 

content. 

The offeror shall document prior experience in specifying, purchasing, using, and installing 

biobased products. The offeror shall provide a list for all relevant contracts over the past two 

years involving the specification, purchase, and use of biobased products. The offeror shall 

include a list of the biobased products specified, purchased, used, and installed. 

The following is sample language that may be used for Section L of solicitations (RFPs), 

as modified appropriately to suit the user’s unique needs and requirements:

Item 1: Proposed Technical Approach towards Cleaning Projects using Biobased 

Products (see Section M.1) 

The government will evaluate the offeror’s proposal based on the degree to which the offeror 

demonstrates the acquisition, installation, and commitment to use biobased products in this 

cleaning effort. Offerors with the most aggressive but realistic approaches to cleaning with 

biobased products will receive additional point consideration. 

Item 2: Experience using Biobased Products in Cleaning Projects (see Section M.2) 

The government will evaluate the degree of the offeror’s demonstrated experience in the use of 

biobased products in cleaning over the last two years from the date of solicitation issuance. 

Offerors with greater quantities and uniqueness in the use of biobased products will receive 

additional point consideration. 

The government will evaluate the offeror’s past biobased project management experience in the 

following areas: contracts performed using biobased products, dollar amount, and formal and 

informal communications methods used to share information and data about biobased products 

between team members and between organizational entities (e.g., manufacturers, suppliers, 

and other vendors or subcontractors). 
76 

Item 3: Past Performance and Customer Satisfaction (see Section M.3) 

The government will evaluate the offeror’s past performance and customer satisfaction with 

biobased cleaning products. Offerors demonstrating exceptional past performance and 

customer satisfaction with an emphasis on “biobased practices” will receive additional point 

consideration. 

a. Past Performance (see Section M.3.a) 

Offerors shall provide 5 to 10 examples of “relevant” past performance over the last two 

years from the date of solicitation issuance. The past performance examples must be 

similar in scope and size to this requirement. 

b. Customer Satisfaction (see Section M.3.b) 

Offerors shall submit at least three references related to their past performance 

submissions and examples provided for this solicitation. Offerors shall provide the 

following contact information: name of contract, vendor name, address, phone number, 

email address, and contract number. 

NOTE: Offerors with no relevant past performance will receive a “neutral” rating for past 

performance so their proposal will not be advantaged or disadvantaged in accordance 

with the Federal Acquisition Regulation. In the context of this solicitation, if an offeror 

does not have any relevant past performance, then the section will not be scored and 

the points deducted from the total possible technical points of 100 (i.e., 100 points minus 

15 points, totaling a maximum possible technical evaluation score of 85 points). 

Item 4: Management Approach (see Section M.4) 

Offerors shall submit a management plan (not to exceed 20 pages) that describes in detail how 

they intend to carry out the requirements set forth in the Statement of Work, with a particular 

emphasis on the use of biobased products and environmentally friendly solutions, approaches, 

methods, and techniques. 

Item 5: Cost/Price/Business Management Proposal (see Section M.5) 

Offerors must provide cost and pricing information for each product and service with supporting 

documentation such as copies of invoices, catalogues, receipts, supplier and vendor quotations, 

etc. Offerors must provide a narrative section explaining all proposed costs to ensure that such 

costs and prices are fair and reasonable to the government. 

Cost and Price Proposal information must include a sufficient level of breakdown and show all 

calculations in an Excel spreadsheet format provided on a compact disc to allow for and 

facilitate the government review and understanding. 
77 

Appendix H.2.1

“Sample” Sustainability Plan, Clause and Provision 

Section L Instructions to Offerors 

Environmental Sustainability Plan (for Contracting Officer (CO) review of plans) 

a. Offerors shall submit the following information as part of their business proposal: 

A description of current environmental sustainability practices and procedures, and a plan 

describing the further steps they will take to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, water use, 

toxic waste release, release of ozone-depleting substances, as well as efforts to reduce, reuse, 

and recycle paper and other materials purchased should they be awarded the contract. 

The Environmental Sustainability Plan will be reviewed as part of the source selection process 

and will be a factor in the award decision. The CO will assess the plans submitted, may address 

the plans during negotiation, and will determine an adjectival description for each offeror’s plan 

as follows: Excellent, Good, Fair, and Poor. This adjectival description will be used along with 

price, technical merit, and past performance in making the award decision. 

Environmental Sustainability Plan (for Peer Reviewer review of plans) 

a. Offerors shall submit the following information as part of their technical proposal: 

A description of current environmental sustainability practices and procedures, and a plan 

describing the further steps they will take to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, water use, 

toxic waste release, release of ozone-depleting substances, as well as efforts to reduce, reuse, 

and recycle paper and other materials purchased should they be awarded the contract. 

The Environmental Sustainability Plan will be reviewed during the Source Evaluation Panel 

(SEP) review of the proposal. Sustainability practices have been incorporated into the 

evaluation criteria and offerors’ technical score can increase or decrease depending on the 

quality of their Environmental Sustainability Plan. 

Sustainability Plan

Environmental Sustainability Program 

(a) To establish an integrated strategy towards sustainability and to make reduction of 

greenhouse gas emissions a priority for all and, in accordance with Executive Order 

(EO) 13693, the contractor shall: 

1) Develop and implement environmental sustainability procedures and practices 

for personnel and facilities. 

2) Implement the Environmental Sustainability Plan, which is incorporated in 

Section J of the contract. 

3) Comply with all Federal, State and local laws and regulations about 

environmental sustainability applicable to the work being performed under this 

contract. 
78 

(b) The Environmental Sustainability Plan should address all sustainability practices to 

include: 

1) Maintaining cost effective waste prevention and recycling programs in its 

facilities. 

2) Reducing or eliminating acquisition and use of toxic or hazardous chemicals. 

3) Implementing integrated pest management and other appropriate landscape 

management practices. 

4) Diverting organic materials from the waste stream through composting. 

5) Increasing use of acceptable alternative chemicals (such as biodegradable 

soaps, cleaners, etc.). 

6) Electronics recycling. 

7) Managing electronic and information technology to minimize energy, toner, and 

paper usage. 

8) Reducing potable water use. 

9) Reducing energy use increasing the portion of energy derived from sustainable 

sources. 

10) Implementing strategies and accommodations for transit, travel, training, and 

conferencing that actively support lower-carbon commuting and travel by 

contractor staff. 

(c) EO 13693 requires the General Services Administration (GSA) to look into various 

options for tracking vendor and contractor greenhouse gas emissions, such as tracking 

through a voluntary registry or a government tracking system. Vendors and contractors 

who commit in their Environmental Sustainability Plan to measure, report, and reduce 

their greenhouse gas emissions through the mechanism selected by GSA will be more 

likely to receive the highest ranking under the source selection criteria. The 

Environmental Sustainability Plan does not have to follow the numbering system outlined 

above. 
79 

Appendix H.3

“Sample” Section M – Evaluation Information 

GENERAL 

Selection of an offeror for contract award will be based on an evaluation of proposals against 

four factors. The factors in order of importance are: technical, cost, sustainability and past 

performance. Although technical factors are of paramount consideration in the award of the 

contract, sustainability, past performance, and cost and price are also important to the overall 

contract award decision. All evaluation factors other than cost or price, when combined, are 

significantly more important than cost. The government intends to make an award(s) to that 

offeror whose proposal provides the best overall value to the government. 

The evaluation will be based on the demonstrated capabilities of the prospective contractors in 

relation to the needs of the project as set forth in the solicitation. The merits of each proposal 

will be evaluated carefully. Each proposal must document the feasibility of successful 

implementation of the requirements of the solicitation. Offerors must submit information 

sufficient to evaluate their proposals based on the detailed criteria listed below. 

SUSTAINABILITY FACTOR 

The offeror’s Environmental Sustainability Plan will be evaluated subsequent to the technical 

evaluation. However, this evaluation will not be conducted on any offeror whose proposal is 

determined to be technically unacceptable. The evaluation will be based on the information 

provided in the plan submitted as part of the proposal and may also consider information 

provided elsewhere in the technical or business proposal. The plan may be revised based on 

negotiation. The final plan will be incorporated into the contract. 

The Contracting Officer will assign an adjectival descriptor to the Environmental Sustainability 

Plan. Each offeror’s plan will be determined to be Excellent, Good, Fair, or Poor. The lack of an 

Environmental Sustainability Plan will result in a Poor rating for that factor and reduce the 

likelihood that such an offeror will be selected for an award. If such an offeror is selected, an 

Environmental Sustainability Plan will be negotiated before an award. 

The following guide is not controlling on the government in making a determination of the 

descriptor that is to be assigned to an offeror for their sustainability factor, but is presented to 

give the offeror a sense of what each descriptor means. 

Descriptor Proposal Qualities 

Excellent An excellent plan documents compliance with relevant environmental laws and 

regulations, existing further steps such as implementing strategies and 

accommodations for transit, travel, training, and conferencing that actively 

support lower-carbon commuting and travel, “green teams” to promote more 

sustainable practices, and investing in more efficient equipment or 

weatherization of facilities. Further, it commits the offeror to measure, report, 

and reduce greenhouse gases in the system to be identified by General 

Services Administration, to reduce other resource usage, and demonstrate that 

the organization is striving to reduce its impact on the natural systems that 

support us. 
80 

Good A good plan documents compliance with relevant environmental laws and 

regulations and commits the organization to more aggressive actions such as 

promoting telework where feasible, operating “green teams” to promote more 

sustainable practices, and investing in more efficient equipment or 

weatherization of facilities. 

Fair A fair plan documents existing programs that meet relevant environmental laws 

and regulations and proposes modest further steps. 

Poor A poor plan merely states that the offeror will comply with relevant 

environmental laws and regulations, or describes programs that merely comply 

with relevant laws. If the offeror does not submit a plan this also counts as poor. 
81 

Appendix H.3.1

“Sample” Section M, Evaluation Factors for Award 

For Purchase of Biobased Products 

Sample Section M – Evaluation Factors for Award 

This is a sample Section M that incorporates evaluation factors that include the offeror’s 

technical and management approach, cost, and past performance associated with biobased 

products. This is provided for informational purposes only. It may be revised to reflect additional 

or other factors peculiar to an agency’s operation. 

The major evaluation factors for this solicitation include technical, management, cost, and past 

performance. Offerors are advised that an award will be made to the offeror whose proposal 

provides the best overall value to the government. 

The evaluation will be based on the demonstrated capabilities of the prospective contractors in 

relation to the requirements of the work. 

M.1 Technical Approach toward Cleaning with Biobased Products (25 points)

The government will evaluate the offeror’s technical approach for fulfilling the cleaning 

services, with an emphasis on the following elements: 

 a. Identification of all biobased products to be acquired, used, and installed in the 

performance of the project (15 points). 

 b. The offeror’s proposed use and installation of biobased products (10 points). 

M.2 Experience using Biobased Products in Cleaning Projects (25 points)

The government will evaluate the offeror’s demonstrated experience using biobased 

products. 

M.3 Past Performance and Customer Satisfaction (25 points) 

a. The government will evaluate the offeror’s past performance in the successful 

completion of similar work either for the government or other clients. The 

government will place special emphasis on the contractor’s past performance in 

the acquisition, use, installation, and commitment to biobased products in the 

performance of cleaning projects. The government will evaluate the offeror’s 

client satisfaction with its cleaning practices (15 points). 

b. The government will evaluate customer satisfaction based upon the degree to 

which the offeror provided quality service to its clients (10 points). 

M.4 Management Approach (25 points) 

The government will evaluate the overall quality and reasonableness of the offeror’s 

management plan to use biobased products and environmentally friendly solutions, 

approaches, methods, and techniques. 
82 

M.5 Cost/Price/Business Management Proposal (No point value assigned) 

The government will evaluate the offeror’s cost/price/business management proposal as 

part of its overall Best Value Determination and will not apply points to this section of the 

offeror’s proposal. The government will evaluate the realism of proposed prices in 

meeting solicitation requirements. 
83 

Appendix I 

Sample Green Contract Language for Construction and Electronic and Information 

Technology (EIT) Products 

The U.S. Department of Energy has provided sample green language for construction and EIT 

products to assist other Federal agencies at: 

http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/technologies/eep_modellang.html. 
84 

Appendix J 

Resources 

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry – Hazardous substances listing. See: 

http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/.

Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) – The AFDC is a comprehensive resource for alternative 

fuel and vehicle information needs. See: http://www.eere.energy.gov/afdc/. 

Alternative Fuel Vehicles – See: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/. 

Biobased Contract Templates – The U.S. Department of Agriculture has developed sample 

biobased language for contract templates available at: 

http://www.dm.usda.gov/procurement/programs/biobased/contracttemplates.htm. 

Biobased Manufacturers Association – Look for the “Biobased Supercenter” information at: 

http://www.biobased.com/. 

Biopreferred® Program – The procurement of biobased products is established in Section 9002 

of Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (FSRIA) and Executive Order (EO) 13693. 

See: www.biopreferred.gov/.

Building for Environmental and Economic Sustainability (BEES) – BEES is a tool that helps in 

the selection of building materials, which take into account environmental and economic 

considerations. This software program is available free of charge on compact disc from the 

Pollution Prevention Information Clearinghouse at 202-566-0799, or as a free download from 

the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Building and Fire Research Laboratory 

Web site at: http://www.bfrl.nist.gov/oae/software/bees/. 

Cleaning Product Attributes Ranking Tool – An interactive tool, which helps the user choose a 

greener cleaning product by prioritizing environmental attributes (e.g., skin irritation potential, 

Volatile Organic Compounds, and recycled packaging). See: http://www.epa.gov/epp/index.htm. 

Defense Energy Support Center (DESC) – DESC supplies Federal agencies with alternative 

fuels, including biodiesel (B20) and ethanol (E85). See: 

http://www.desc.dla.mil/DCM/DCMPage.asp?PageID=591. 

Department of Energy (DOE) Biomass Program – DOE’s Biomass Program develops 

technology for conversion of biomass (plant-derived material) to fuels, chemicals, materials, and 

power, to reduce dependence on foreign oil and foster growth of biorefineries. Today’s biomass 

uses include ethanol, biodiesel, biomass power, and industrial process energy. See: 

http://www1.eere.energy.gov/bioenergy/pdfs/aviation_biofuels_haq.pdf. 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and DOE Fuel Economy Web Site –The site also 

provides information about gas mileage tips, gas prices, advanced technology, and the 

importance of fuel economy. See: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/.

EPA’s Green Vehicle Guidance - This guidance provides information about the environmental 

performance of vehicles based on emissions levels, air pollution, fuel economy values, and 

global warming impacts. It does not account for other environmental factors, such as 
85 

recyclability of the vehicle, or other consumer preferences such as safety, cost, or driving 

performance. Users of the guide can look up ratings for specific vehicles, or view a list of the 

ratings for all current year vehicles. See: EPA Green Vehicles Guidance.

Department of Defense (DoD) EMALL – The DoD EMALL allows DoD and other Federal 

customers to find and acquire off-the-shelf, finished goods and items from the commercial 

marketplace. The DoD EMALL offers cross-catalog shopping for the purpose of comparison 

pricing and best value decision-making. See: https://dod.emall.dla.mil/acct/. 

DOE’s “Buying Energy-Efficient Products” – See: http://www.eere.energy.gov/. 

 

EPEAT® – This is a tool for evaluating the environmental performance of electronic products 

throughout their life cycle. The tool was developed to meet the growing demand by large 

institutional purchasers to buy greener electronic products. It is expected to gain wide 

acceptance in Electronic and Information Technology (EIT) purchasing by Federal and State 

governments. See: http://www.epeat.net/. 

Energy Conservation Web Sites: 

− Energy Guide EnerGuide: This Web site establishes energy-efficient guidelines for 

hundreds of consumer products. 

− PowerSmart: https://www.bchydro.com/powersmart.html – This Web site identifies 

energy-efficient products and strategies to reduce energy consumption. 

− EnergyStar® products are available at the following Web site: www. energystar.gov. 

− FEMP products: Available at: http://www.eere.energy.gov/femp/procurement. 

Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) – See: http://www.epa.gov/epp. 

EPA’s Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines (CPG) – This is EPA’s recycled content 

database. See: http://www.epa.gov/cpg.

EPA Database of Environmental Information for Products and Services – Includes information 

on products that avoid the five priority chemicals. See: 

http://yosemite1.epa.gov/oppt/eppstand2.nsf. 

 

EPA’s Greenscapes – Guidance on environmentally preferable landscaping. See: 

http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/green/howto.htm. 

EPA Green Meetings – The Green Meeting Web site provides information to incorporate 

environmentally friendly practices for event planning, accommodations, food service, and event 

space. See: http://www2.epa.gov/p2/green-meetings. 

EPA’s Green Power Partnership – Provides assistance and recognition to organizations that 

demonstrate environmental leadership by choosing green power. See: 

http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/. 

EPA’s Power Profiler – Electricity is generated in many different ways with a wide variation in 

environmental impact. EPA’s Power Profiler calculates how clean the energy is that is provided 

in users’ areas, compared to national averages. See: 

http://oaspub.epa.gov/powpro/ept_pack.charts. 

 
86 

EPA’s Smartway Transport Program – Challenges companies shipping products and the truck 

and rail companies delivering these products to improve the environmental performance of their 

freight operations. See: http://www.epa.gov/smartway. 

EPA WasteWise – Explores the connection between solid waste and climate change, and 

describes the “WARM” model for calculating the cooling effects of waste reduction. See: 

http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/smm/wastewise/index.htm. 

Federal Electronics Challenge – A voluntary partnership program that encourages Federal 

facilities and agencies to purchase greener electronic products, reduce impacts of electronic 

products during use, and manage obsolete electronics in an environmentally safe way. See: 

http://www2.epa.gov/fec. 

Federal Green Construction Guide for Specifiers – Addresses the need for a comprehensive 

approach for procuring green building products and construction services within the Federal 

Government. The guide will help Federal agencies meet their project-specific environmental 

goals. See: http://fedgreenspecs.wbdg.org. 

Federal Logistics Information System – A database of more than 7 million supply items 

developed by the Defense Logistics Agency. This database educates consumers about the 

specific environmental attributes of a product. In keeping with EPP guidelines, products are 

assigned up to three environmental attributes. See: http://catalog.data.gov/dataset/federallogistics-information-system-web-search-webflis. 

Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Green Guides – The FTC, in cooperation with the EPA, has 

developed guidelines for advertisers to ensure that their environmental advertising and labeling 

claims (such as “environmentally preferable”) comply with the law and do not mislead the 

consumer. The guide can also be used by consumers to understand different types of 

environmental labeling. See: https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2012/10/ftcissues-revised-green-guides. 

Financial Value Calculator – The EnergyStar® Web site offers a Financial Value Calculator 

spreadsheet to present a compelling business case for energy investments to senior 

management. See: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=assess_value.financial_tools. 

General Services Administration (GSA) Environmental Programs – See: http://www.gsa.gov

(Select “Products” and “Services”). 

Global Ecolabeling Network – A nonprofit network of ecolabeling organizations worldwide. See: 

http://www.globalecolabelling.net/. 

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Calculator – Available online from EPA. This interactive calculator 

helps estimate the greenhouse gas emissions of human activities, convert carbon emissions to 

equivalent units, and identify and compare emissions reduction options. See: 

http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/emissions/ind_calculator.html. 

Green Purchasing Training – 

- The EnergyStar® program offers online training sessions on such topics as EnergyStar®

Purchasing and Procurement; EnergyStar® – An Overview; New Building Design; 

Benchmarking Tool/Portfolio Manager; Money for Your Energy Upgrades; The Five-
87 

Stage Approach to Building Upgrades; and Monitor Power Management. See: 

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=business.bus_internet_presentations.

- Office of the Federal Environmental Executive offers slides for green purchasing 

overview training to agency contracting, environmental, and facilities staff. The training 

primarily addresses purchasing of recycled content, biobased, and environmentally 

preferable products, and also touches on purchasing of energy-efficient products. See: 

https://interact.gsa.gov/blog/green-purchasing-training and 

https://www.fedcenter.gov/Documents/index.cfm?id=14261. 

Green Seal Organization – See: http://www.greenseal.org/. 

GSA Advantage – See: http://www.gsaadvantage.gov.

GSA Global Supply Catalogs – GSA Global Supply provides federal users, military or civilian, 

worldwide access to common-use items like office products, tools and cleaning supplies. Users 

can requisition items and pay with a government purchase card or through direct billing via an 

Activity Address Code (AAC/DoDAAC). Multiple ordering methods are available to maximize 

customer options. See: http://www.gsa.gov/portal/category/21345.

GSA’s Vehicle Leasing Program – GSA’s Office of Fleet Management mission is to provide 

safe, reliable low cost vehicle solutions to assist federal agencies to effectively and efficiently 

meet their mission and federal mandates. There are two primary service delivery functions 

within the program – vehicle purchasing and vehicle leasing. GSA also offers ancillary vehicle 

services that provide a complete fleet management solution for federal agencies. Offers 

Alternative Fuel Vehicles as part of their service. See: 

http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/104492. 

Guide to Resource Efficient Building Elements – See: http://www.crbt.org/handcrafted2.asp. 

Hospitals for a Healthy Environment – See: https://practicegreenhealth.org/. 

INFORM – A research organization that provides information on ways to reduce the 

environmental impacts of the U.S. economy through improved product design and greener 

purchasing. See: http://www.informinc.org/. 

Low Standby Products – Low standby products are those that use 1 watt of power or less during 

standby (“sleep”) mode. Examples of these products include scanners, copiers, and fax/printers 

at the Federal Energy Management Program. See: 

http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/procurement/eep_standby_power.html. 

National Institute of Health’s Mercury-Free NIH Web Site – Information on alternatives to 

mercury-bearing products is available at: http://www.ors.od.nih.gov/. 

North American Commission for Environmental Cooperation, Trade in Environmentally 

Preferable Goods and Services Project – Aims to build North American markets for renewable 

energy and other green products, and facilitates green trade through ecolabeling and green 

purchasing. See: http://www.cec.org/files/pdf/ECONOMY/121-03-05_en.pdf. 

Non-Ozone-Depleting Substances – Can be seen at: 

http://www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/lists/index.html. 
88 

OFEE – This site contains Federal agency EPP links. See: http://www.ofee.gov/. 

“Paper Calculator” – The Paper Calculator calculates the U.S. average energy and wood 

consumption and environmental releases summed across the full “life cycle” of each of five 

major grades of paper and paperboard. For a given grade, it allows the user to compare the 

environmental impacts of papers made with different levels of post-consumer recycled content, 

ranging from 0 percent (e.g., virgin paper) to 100 percent. See: 

http://c.environmentalpaper.org/home. 

Promising Practices Guide for “Greening” Contracts – A series of short case studies highlighting 

successful strategies for incorporating environmental factors into a variety of product and 

service contracts. Several DoD facilities, including the Pentagon, are highlighted. See: 

http://www.epa.gov/epp/pubs/casestudies.htm. 

IFORM – Inform is a national non-profit that produces short films designed to educate the public 

about the effects of human activity on the environment and human health. Our goal is to 

empower citizens, businesses and government to adopt practices and policies that will sustain 

our planet for future generations. See: http://www.informinc.org/pages/index.php. 

Sample Biobased Contract Language – See: 

http://www.dm.usda.gov/procurement/programs/biobased/CustodialJanitorialFY08.pdf. 

Searchable database of vendors who sell or distribute CPG-designated products with recycled 

content – See: http://www.epa.gov/cpg/database.htm. 

SNAP – See: http://www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/lists/index.html to see alternatives to 

ozone-depleting substances. 

Supplier Database for Recycled Content (CPG Designated) Products – See: 

http://www.epa.gov/cpg/database.htm. 

Tips for Buying “Green” with the Government Credit Card – Tips to help government purchase 

cardholders holders make “greener” choices when buying products, such as office supplies. 

See: http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/epp/tools/creditcard.htm. 

Tips on “Greening” Conferences – A one-stop shop for green conference information including a 

checklist of opportunities to minimize the environmental impacts of holding meetings and 

conferences; contract language for obtaining “greener” conference planning/support services; 

and links to information on other related initiatives. See: http://www.epa.gov/epp/index.htm. 

UNICOR – UNICOR’s product categories include: Clothing and Textiles, Graphics, Office 

Furniture, Fleet Management and Vehicular Components, Electronics, Industrial Products, 

Recycling Activities, and Services. See: http://www.unicor.gov/Environmental_Sensitivity.aspx. 

U.S. Green Building Council – See: http://www.usgbc.org/. 

WaterSense (An EPA Partnership Program) - WaterSense, a partnership program by the U.S. 

Environmental Protection Agency, seeks to protect the future of our nation's water supply by 

offering people a simple way to use less water with water-efficient products, new homes, and 

services. See: http://www.epa.gov/watersense/our_water/why_water_efficiency.html. 
89 

Whole Building Design Guide – The Whole Building Design Guide is a comprehensive, 

Internet-based portal to a wide range of Federal and private sector building-related guidance, 

criteria, and technology, including guidance and resources on sustainable design. See: 

http://www.wbdg.org/.
90 

Appendix K

Definitions 

Acquisition – Acquiring by contract using appropriated funds for supplies or services (including 

construction) by and for the use of the Federal Government through purchase or lease, whether 

the supplies or services are already in existence or must be created, developed, or 

demonstrated and evaluated. Acquisition begins when agency needs are established and 

includes the description of requirements to satisfy agency needs, solicitation, selection of 

sources, contract award and financing details, contract performance and administration, and 

those technical and management functions directly related to the process of fulfilling agency 

needs by contract. 

Affirmative Procurement Program – Agency program required by Executive Order (EO) 13693 

ensuring that Environmental Protection Agency-designated recycled content products, U.S. 

Department of Agriculture (USDA)-biobased products and other environmentally products and 

services will be purchased to the maximum extent practicable, consistent with Federal law and 

procurement regulations. 

Alternative Fuel Vehicle – Any dedicated, flexible-fuel, or duel-fuel vehicle designed to operate 

on at least one alternative fuel as defined in Section 301 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. 

Biobased Product – A commercial or industrial product (other than food or feed) that uses 

biological products or renewable animal, marine, or forestry materials. The procurement of 

biobased products is established in Section 9002 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act 

of 2002 and EO 13693. The 2002 Farm Bill requires that biobased products be included in 

Federal APP programs. USDA-designated biobased products include mobile equipment 

hydraulic fluids, roof coatings, diesel fuel additives, penetrating lubricants, water tank coatings, 

and bedding, bed linens, and towels. 

Biodegradable – The ability of a substance, material, or product ingredient to readily decompose 

through the action of microbes. 

Carcinogen – A substance known to cause cancer in humans. 

Certification – Provided by offerors, bidders, and vendors, it is written documentation certifying 

that the percentage of recovered materials contained in products or to be used in the 

performance of the contract is at least the amount required by applicable specifications or other 

contractual requirements. Certification on multi-component or multi-material products should 

verify the percentage of post-consumer materials and recovered material contained in the major 

constituents of the product. 

Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) – Refers to the family of compounds of chlorine, fluorine, and carbon. 

CFCs contribute to the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer, and have been used as an 

ingredient for refrigerants, solvents, and for blowing plastic-foam insulation and packaging. 

Chronic Toxicity – Capable of producing illness from repeated exposure. 

Components of the Federal Green Procurement Preference Program – Recovered material, 

environmentally preferable, energy-efficient (EnergyStar® and energy-efficient stand-by power 
91 

devices), biobased products, alternative fuels and fuel efficiency, and non-ozone-depleting 

substances. 

Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines – Regulations issued by the U.S. Environmental 

Protection Agency (EPA) pursuant to Section 6002 of Resource Conservation and Recovery Act 

(RCRA) identifying items produced (or that can be produced) with recovered materials. 

Cost-Effective Procurement Preference Program – A procurement program favoring more 

environmentally-sound or energy-efficient products and services than other competing products 

and services, where price and other factors are equal. 

Energy-Efficient Product – A product that is in the upper 25 percent of energy efficiency for all 

similar products, or that is at least 10 percent more efficient than the minimum level meeting 

Federal Government standards. 

“Energy Star Certified” – “EnergyStar® certified” means a product meets the energy efficiency 

standards set forth by the EPA for compliance with its EnergyStar® program. These products 

use less energy to perform the same operation or function as a comparable piece of equipment. 

Examples of EnergyStar® products include computers, copiers, clothes washers, dishwashers, 

light fixtures, and compact fluorescent light bulbs. 

Environmentally Preferable – Products or services having a lesser or reduced effect on human 

health and the environment when compared with competing products or services, serving the 

same purpose. This comparison may consider raw materials acquisition, production, 

manufacturing, packaging, distribution, reuse, operation, maintenance, or product or service 

disposal. Examples of environmentally preferable products include a printer that is EnergyStar®

compliant, prints on recycled paper and also has a two-sided copying capability, paint with no or 

low volatility organic compounds, and 100 percent post-consumer paper that is not chemically 

de-inked and is processed chlorine-free. 

EPA-designated Item – A product or category of products containing recovered materials that 

has been designated by the EPA in the Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines. 

Estimation – Quantitative determination made by vendors of the total percentage of recovered 

material contained in offered products. 

Environmental Management System (EMS) – A set of processes and practices that enables an 

organization to increase its operating efficiency, continually improve overall environmental 

performance, and better manage and reduce its environmental impacts, including those related 

to energy and transportation functions. EMS implementation reflects accepted quality 

management principles based on the “Plan, Do, Check, Act” model found in the ISO 

14001:2004(E) International Standard, and uses a standard process to identify and prioritize 

current activities, establish goals, implement plans to meet goals, evaluate progress, and make 

improvements to ensure continual improvement. 

Executive Agency - An Executive or Federal agency, as defined in 5 U.S.C 105. 

Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP)-Designated Products – Energy-efficient 

products are designated by the Federal Energy Management Program of the U.S. Department 

of Energy. These products are among the highest 25 percent of equivalent products for energy 

efficiency. For each product, FEMP identifies the efficiency levels needed to meet the 
92 

requirements for procurement of energy-efficient products. Examples of FEMP-designated 

products include electric and gas water heaters, ice machines, boilers, and chillers. 

Federal Supply Source – Any supply source managed by a Federal agency such as the General 

Services Administration (GSA), Government Printing Office (GPO), or Defense Logistics Agency 

(DLA). 

Green Building Practices – The incorporation of environmental, health, and waste prevention 

criteria in building design, site-planning and preparation, materials acquisition, construction or 

remodeling, deconstruction, and waste disposal. 

Green Hierarchy – The logical order by which waste prevention and effective environmental 

practices are applied. 

Greenhouse Gases – Any of several dozen heat-trapping trace gases in the earth’s atmosphere 

that absorb infrared radiation. The two major greenhouse gases are water vapor and carbon 

dioxide; lesser greenhouse gases include methane, ozone, CFCs, and nitrogen oxides. 

Green Products or Services – Products and services that meet the requirements of one or more 

of the components of Federal green procurement preference programs: the RCRA Section 

6002, EO 13693, biobased product requirements of the 2002 Farm Bill, and Federal Acquisition 

Regulation (FAR) Part 23. 

 

Green Purchasing Plan (GPP) – The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC’s) official 

policy document implementing the agency’s Affirmative Procurement Program (APP) program. 

Hazardous Materials – Any material that, because of its quantity, concentration, or physical or 

chemical characteristics, poses a significant threat or potential hazard to human health and 

safety or to the environment if released into the workplace or the environment. 

Integrated Pest Management – Use of a combination of pest control methods, including 

improved sanitation, mechanical, physical, biological, or chemical means. 

Life-Cycle Cost – The comprehensive examination of a product’s environmental and economic 

effects throughout its lifetime including new material extraction, transportation, manufacturing, 

use, and disposal. 

Life-Cycle Cost Assessment – The amortized annual cost of a product, including costs 

associated with capital, installation, operations, maintenance, and disposal, discounted over the 

lifetime of the product. 

Lubricants – Motor oil (refined motor oil) and refined lubricants such as hydraulic and 

transmission fluids and similar oils. 

Manufacture – To produce, assemble, or import a consumer product. 

Manufacturer – Any business that, or person who, manufactures a consumer product. 

Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) – Written or printed material about a product that includes 

information on the product’s physical and chemical characteristics; physical and health hazards; 

exposure limits; whether the product contains carcinogenic ingredients above a certain 

threshold; precautions for safe handling and use; control measures; emergency and first aid 
93 

procedures; the date of preparation of the MSDS or the last change to it; and the name, 

address, and telephone number of the manufacturer. 

Minimum Content Standard – The minimum recovered material content of a product. The 

standard must be high enough to ensure the recovered material content required is the 

maximum available without jeopardizing the intended item use of the product. 

 

Model Facility – An organization or activity that has made an outstanding contribution to waste 

prevention, recycling, and affirmative procurement through its leadership, investment in 

resources, and change in culture. 

Ozone-Depleting Substance – Any substance designated as a Class I or Class II substance by 

the EPA in 40 CFR 82. 

Performance Specification – A specification stating the desired product operation or function but 

not specifying its construction materials. 

Persistent Bioaccumulative Toxics (PBTs) – Toxic chemicals that persist in the environment and 

increase in concentration through food chains as larger animals consume PBT-laden smaller 

animals. They transfer rather easily among air, water, and land, and span boundaries of 

programs, geography, and generations. As a result, PBTs pose risks to human health and 

ecosystems. They are associated with a range of adverse human health effects, including 

effects on the nervous system, reproductive and developmental problems, cancer, and genetic 

impacts. They include heavy metals and chemicals such as mercury, dioxins, and PCBs 

(polychlorinated biphenyls). 

Pilot Project – A trial of waste prevention, recycling, or affirmative procurement practice. 

Pollution Prevention – “Source reduction,” as defined in the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990 

(42 U.S.C. 13102), and other practices that reduce or eliminate the creation of pollutants 

through: (1) increased efficiency in the use of raw materials, energy, water, or other resources; 

or (2) protection of natural resources by conservation. 

Post-Consumer Material – A material or finished product that has served its intended use and 

has been discarded for disposal or recovery having completed its life as a “recovered material.” 

“Post-consumer material” is a part of the broader category of “recovered materials.” 

Post-consumer Recycled Content – Percentage of a product made from materials and 

byproducts recovered or diverted from the solid waste stream after completing their usefulness 

as consumer items and used in place of raw or virgin material. Post-consumer recycled content 

includes materials (such as paper, bottles, and cans) collected for recycling. 

Post-Consumer Waste – A material or product discarded for disposal after passing through the 

hands of a final user, having served its intended purpose. Post-consumer waste is part of the 

broader category “recycled material.” 

Practicable – Capable of performing in accordance with applicable specifications, available at a 

reasonable price and within a reasonable period of time, and while a satisfactory level of 

competition with other products is being maintained. 
94 

Preference – When two products or services are equal in performance characteristics and price, 

the government, in making purchasing decisions, will favor the more environmentally-sound or 

energy-efficient product. 

Preference Standard – The highest practicable minimum content standard for products. When 

minimum content is impractical to calculate, preference is for the presence of a recovered 

material or an environmentally preferable trait (e.g., retread tires). 

Price Preference – A percentage of increase in price that an entity will pay to obtain a 

designated product or service. 

Processed Chlorine Free Paper – Paper that is manufactured using a percentage of 

post-consumer recycled paper fiber (that may contain residues of chlorine) and is whitened 

without adding chlorine or chlorine derivatives. 

Procurement Preference Program – The first element of an agency APP program, in which an 

agency expresses a preference for purchasing recycled content products designated by EPA. 

Procurement Request Originator – The individual or organization responsible for defining the 

requirements for a purchase or acquisition program. This term includes, but is not limited to, 

engineers, acquisition program managers, and all contract specification writers and reviewers. 

Procuring Agency – Any Federal or State agency, or agency of a State’s political subdivision 

using appropriated Federal funds for such procurement, or any person contracting with any 

such agency with respect to work performed under such contract. 

Product Lifecycle – The attributes that affect a product over its lifespan, including raw material 

acquisition, manufacturing, distribution, use, maintenance, and ultimate disposal of the product. 

(Compare with Life-Cycle Cost.) 

Recovered Material – Waste materials and byproducts recovered or diverted from solid waste, 

excluding those materials and byproducts generated from, and commonly reused within, an 

original manufacturing process. 

Recovered Materials Advisory Notice (RMAN) – Guidance issued by EPA, which recommends 

the range of recycled content that should be in products designated in the Comprehensive 

Procurement Guidelines. RMAN also contains other EPA-recommendations pertinent to 

purchasing recycled content products, such as reference to specifications established by 

government agencies or standards setting organizations. 

Recyclability – The ability of a product or material to be recovered or otherwise diverted from the 

solid waste stream for the purpose of recycling. 

Recyclable Materials – Materials that are capable of being recycled and which would otherwise 

be processed or disposed as solid waste. 

Recycled Material – A material used in place of raw or virgin material in product manufacturing 

consisting of materials derived from post-consumer waste, industrial scrap, material derived 

from agricultural wastes, and other items, all of which can be used in manufacturing new 

products (see “Recovered Material”). 
95 

Recycled Oil – Used oil that has been prepared for reuse as a petroleum product by refining, 

reclaiming, reprocessing or other means provided that the preparation or use is operationally 

safe, environmentally sound, and complies with all laws and regulations. 

Recycled Products – Goods that contain materials that have been diverted from the solid waste 

stream, including post-consumer materials and materials generated in industrial processes. 

Recycling – The series of activities, including collection, separation, and processing, by which 

products or other materials are recovered from the solid waste stream for use as raw materials 

in the manufacture of new products (other than fuel for producing heat or power by combustion). 

Refurbished Product – A product that has been completely disassembled and restored to its 

original working order while maximizing the reuse of its original materials. 

Remanufactured Products – Products or equipment partially or fully manufactured from existing 

product materials where such materials are cleaned, repaired, rebuilt or restored, and reused in 

the new product or equipment. 

Renewable Materials – Materials made from plant-based feedstock capable of regenerating in 

less than 200 years, such as trees and agricultural products. Rapidly renewable resources, such 

as grain-based feedstocks, regenerate in less than 2 years. 

Requirements Official – The individual or organization responsible for defining the requirements 

for a purchase or acquisition program. This term specifically refers to contracting officers’ 

representative (CORs). 

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Section 6002 – Requires EPA to issue 

Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines that list designated items that are or can be made with 

recovered materials. 

Retreaded Tire – Any tire that uses an existing casing for the purpose of vulcanizing new tread 

to such casing that meets all performance and quality standards in the Federal Motor Vehicle 

Safety Standards, as determined by the U.S. Department of Transportation. 

Reusable Product – A product—such as a washable food or beverage container, or a refillable 

ballpoint pen—that can be used several times before being discarded. 

Solid Waste – Garbage, refuse, sludges, and other discarded solid materials, including those 

from industrial, commercial, and agricultural operations, and from community activities. This 

excludes solids or dissolved materials in domestic sewage or other significant pollutants in 

water resources, such as silt, dissolved or suspended solids in industrial wastewater effluents, 

dissolved materials in irrigation return flow, etc. 

Requirements Official – The individual or organization responsible for defining the requirements 

for a purchase or acquisition program. This term specifically applies to CORs. 

Source Reduction (see “pollution prevention”) – Any practice: (1) reducing the amount of 

hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant entering any waste stream or otherwise 

released into the environment (including fugitive emissions) before recycling, treatment, or 

disposal, and (2) reducing the hazards to public health and the environment associated with the 

release of such substances, pollutants, or contaminants. 
96 

Specification – A clear and accurate description of the technical requirements for materials, 

products or services, including the minimum requirement for the quality and construction of 

materials and any equipment necessary for an acceptable product. In general, specifications are 

in the form of written descriptions, drawings, prints, commercial designations, industry 

standards, and other descriptive references. 

Sustainable – An action that satisfies present needs without compromising the ability of future 

generations to meet their needs. 

Sustainable Products or Materials – Products or materials that a life-cycle analysis determines 

are ecological, economical, and equitable. 

Unreasonable Price – Occurs when a recycled product cost is greater compared to virgin 

material cost. (Unreasonable price is not a factor when minimum content standards are 

specified in the statement of work or procurement request, because price estimates will only be 

obtained from vendors who can supply products meeting recovered material content 

requirements). 

Verification – Procedures used by procuring agencies to confirm both vendor estimates and 

certifications of the percentages of recovered material contained in the products supplied to 

them or to be used in the performance of a contract. 

Virgin Material – A mined or harvested raw material to be used in manufacturing. This includes 

previously unused copper, aluminum, lead, zinc, iron, other metal or metal ore, or any 

undeveloped resource that is, or with new technology will become, a source of raw materials. 

 

Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) – A VOC means an organic compound characterized by a 

tendency to readily evaporate into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution and photochemical 

smog. 

Waste Paper – (1) All post-consumer materials (such as discarded copy paper); 

(2) manufacturing wastes generated after the completion of the paper-making process; and 

(3) finished paper and paper board from obsolete inventories. 

Waste Prevention (Also known as “source reduction”) – Any change in the design, 

manufacturing, purchase, or use of materials or products (including packaging) to reduce their 

toxicity before they become municipal solid waste. Waste prevention also refers to the re-use of 

products or materials. 

Waste Reduction – Preventing or decreasing the amount of waste being generated through 

waste prevention, recycling, or purchasing recycled and environmentally preferable products. 

Water-Efficient – A product that is in the upper 25 percent of water efficiency for all similar 

products, or that is at least 10 percent more efficient than the minimum level meeting 

U.S. Federal Government standards. 
97 

Appendix L

Acronyms 

ADM Office of Administration 

AF alternative fuel 

AFDC Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles Data Center 

AFV alternative fuel vehicle 

ACSO Agency Chief Sustainability Officer 

AMD Acquisition Management Division 

APP Affirmative Procurement Program 

ARC Agency Recycling Coordinator 

BTEX benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene 

CAA Clean Air Act 

CEQ Council on Environmental Quality 

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

CNG compressed natural gas 

CO contracting officer 

COR contracting officer’s representative 

CPG Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines 

CS contract specialist 

CSO Chief Sustainability Officer 

DAS Division of Administrative Services 

DESC Defense Energy Support Center 

DFS Division of Facilities and Security 

DLA Defense Logistics Agency 

DoD U.S. Department of Defense 

DOE U.S. Department of Energy 

DoT U.S. Department of Transportation 

E85 ethanol blend of 85 percent or higher 

EISA Energy Independence and Security Act 

EIT Electronic and Information Technology 

EO Executive order 

EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

EPAct Energy Policy Act 

EPEAT® Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool 

EPP environmentally preferable purchasing 

FAR Federal Acquisition Regulation 

FCSO Federal Chief Sustainability Officer 

FEMP Federal Energy Management Program 

FMB Facilities Management Branch

FRC Facility Recycling Coordinators 

FSRIA Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 

FSS Federal Supply Service 

FY fiscal year (October 1 through September 30) 

GEC Green Electronics Council 

GHG greenhouse gas 

GPC Green Products Compilation

GPO Government Printing Office 

GPP Green Purchasing Plan 

GSA General Services Administration 
98 

LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design 

LPG liquefied petroleum gas 

MSAs metropolitan statistical areas 

MSDS material safety data sheets 

NDAA 2008 National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 

NRC U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission 

ODS Ozone-depleting substances 

OFEE Office of the Federal Environmental Executive 

OFPP Office of Federal Procurement Policy 

OMB Office of Management and Budget 

PBT persistent bioaccumulative toxics 

PERC perchloroethene 

PL public law 

RA regional administrators 

RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act 

R&D research and development 

RFP request for proposal (solicitation) 

RMAN recovered materials advisory notice 

SFI Sustainable Forest Initiative 

SNAP Significant New Alternative Policy 

TCE trichloroethene 

USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture 

VOC volatile organic compound 

 

Through early and frequent communication, particularly between contracting officers’ 

representatives and contracting officers during the early procurement 

planning, the NRC can effectively balance mission needs 

with Federal green purchasing requirements and goals.