ALBANY - Governor David Paterson has signed an Executive Order establishing a New York State “Green Procurement and Agency Sustainability Program,” to promote policies within state agencies and authorities that reduce the consumption of materials and energy and reduce potential impacts on public health and the environment. As a result, state agencies will purchase environmentally-friendly commodities, services and technology and develop sustainability and stewardship programs.

The Executive Order will achieve its goals through three primary initiatives: an interagency committee, environmentally-friendly agency programs and policies, and training State employees to pursue their duties in a manner which is mindful of their impact on the environment.

Interagency Committee on Sustainability and Green Procurement:
The Governor has ordered the creation of an Interagency Committee on Sustainability and Green Procurement to enhance interagency coordination in promoting “green” policies. The Committee will consist of the heads of State environmental, energy, economic development, transportation, budget, health, and operations agencies and authorities, and will be co-chaired by Commissioner of General Services John Egan and Commissioner of Environmental Conservation Pete Grannis. The Committee will work to ensure that State agencies have the direction they need to carry out environmentally-conscious purchasing, planning and contracting.

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship Programs:
Each State agency and authority will develop and implement programs and policies that will promote environmental sustainability and stewardship. These programs and policies will focus on reducing potential impacts on public health and the environment, by supporting recycling, reducing or eliminating the use and generation of toxic substances, pollution and waste, increasing energy efficiency, and using renewable energy sources. In addition, when it is practical and cost efficient, State agencies and authorities will purchase 100% post-consumer content recycled paper for daily use and for publications. State agencies will also develop programs to separate recyclable materials in order to ensure efficient and effective materials recovery.

Training and Staff:
The Governor has directed that agencies and authorities assign an employee to serve as a Sustainability and Green Procurement Coordinator, and the Commissioner of the Office of General Services to select an employee to serve as Director of Green Procurement. The Committee, along with designated employees, will work to develop training and outreach programs for appropriate staff, vendors and contractors.