Organizations that practice green procurement influence those around them. Markets will change to meet the demands of organizations practising green procurement, increasing availability and decreasing prices for green products and services. This will make it easier for others to get involved. Purchasing services involves selecting companies that behave in an environmentally responsible manner and will consider the products they use in a way consistent with the goals of the contracting organization. Price may be a barrier because products are ordered in small quantities, special ordered, or not warehoused locally.
Prices are higher for the transportation and production of small orders or production runs.
Most products are more expensive if purchased under these conditions. Sometimes a green product may cost more initially, but will generally cost less over its life. For example, a non-toxic alternative to a toxic product will cost less to transport, store, handle, and dispose. It will require fewer permits, less training for staff, and the consequences of an accident will be greatly reduced. Similarly, a product that uses less packaging and that is easily recyclable or reusable will cost less to dispose.