Using Acquisition Life Cycle Tools
There are a number of tools and resources provided by the Federal government to promote cost-effective and sustainable acquisition (e.g. energy and water efficient products, reduced life cycle costs). This webpage provides guidance for how each of the tools can be best utilized during each phase of the procurement life cycle.
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GSA's SFTool: Use modules within Learn and Plan sections (e.g. water efficiency, healthy indoor environments, responsible business conduct) to research best practices |
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Acquisition Gateway : When researching existing acquisition vehicles for potential use in meeting your requirement, check whether an existing contract has minimum sustainable acquisition requirements by looking for Green Check . |
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GSA's Green Procurement Compilation: Identify minimum Federal sustainable acquisition requirements, sample source selection criteria, and sample contract language |
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EPA's Sustainable Marketplace: Identify best practices for cost-effective, sustainable acquisitions and learn more about EPA recommended ecolabels |
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Federal Procurement Data System: When documenting contract award, the contracting officer should ensure applicable sustainability fields (8K and 8L) identify the sustainability requirements included in contract. |
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SFTool Product Search : Contractors can utilize this tool to efficiently locate cost-effective and sustainable products that comply with requirements of contract. |
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SFTool Verifying Delivery of Sustainable Products and Services Module: This module can be used to identify best practices for validating that contractors provide compliant products and services. |
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System for Awards Management: Contains resources (e.g. Biobased Reporting Quick Start Guide) to help applicable service and construction contracts submit biobased and/or HFC report in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulations. |
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Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS): Contracting Officers can capture contractor’s compliance with sustainable acquisition requirements for contract. |
Other Resources
- Cost Savings and Environmental Benefits Calculators: Available calculators can assist with determining any cost savings and other environmental benefits resulting from the contract (e.g. Energy Star Cost Savings Calculator, EPEAT Cost Savings Calculator, FEMP Energy Efficient Cost Savings Calculators).
- Recognition Programs: Consider recognizing successful projects through an awards program (e.g. DOE GreenBuy Awards, Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards, EPA SaferChoice Awards)