Since 2008, the City of Ghent has in place an action plan for sustainability, “Ghent 2020”, which includes more than 105 actions and initiatives to make Ghent a more sustainable city, including sustainable procurement activities. In 2014, Ghent was the host of the EcoProcura conference, a unique meeting point to share knowledge on sustainable procurement (SPP) and procurement of innovation (PPI).

As a firm believer in SPP, these are Ghent’s principle: leading by example, using purchasing power as a leverage for sustainability, making procurement a strategic partner, cost-efficient use of public money, and raise the maturity standard of the procurement organization.

The Sustainable Procurement Strategy of the City of Ghent focuses on:

• Minimizing the ecological footprint throughout the entire life-cycle with a focus on rational use of energy
  and independence of non-renewable energy
• Minimizing the impact of local air quality through efficient and environmentally friendly transportation and deliveries.
• Encouraging sustainable employment of disadvantaged groups with specific attention for youth unemployment, and strengthening the sustainable growth of the social economy sector.
• Fostering local economic growth with special attention for start-ups and sustainable, innovative companies.
• Integrating and assuring international labor standards and fair trade principles throughout the supply chain.
• Encouraging sustainable entrepreneurship among suppliers.
• Increasing the maturity of the procurement function and striving towards excellence in procurement.