References

The NSW Government is committed to enhancing environmental sustainability outcomes in the delivery of goods, services and infrastructure.

The policy context for environmental sustainability is continuously evolving. Procurement practitioners should regularly undertake a scan of recent policy developments to ensure their procurement approach considers all relevant environmental sustainability policies.

This guidance assists with the practical applications of objectives set out in the following policy documents.

Climate Change (Net Zero Future) Act 2023

This Act enshrines in law emissions reduction targets including a 50% reduction by 2030, 75% reduction by 2035 and net zero by 2050. It sets an objective for NSW to be more resilient to a changed climate and establishes the independent, expert Net Zero Commission. The Act also provides guiding principles for NSW policymakers, including identifying responsibilities for the NSW Government to urgently develop and implement best-practice approaches to addressing climate change.

Environmental Management Guidelines for Construction

Provides guidance for the planning and implementation of environmental management systems and site- specific environmental plans for NSW Government construction projects.

Government Sector Finance Amendment (Annual Reporting Requirements) Regulation 2023

Mandates requires annual reporting on metrics and targets to manage climate-related risks and opportunities.

Natural Capital Statement of Intent

Aims to recognise the value of, and our impact and dependencies on natural capital. This includes integrating the value of natural capital into decision-making, investing in natural capital assets and markets, and promoting the procurement of nature-positive goods and services.

NSW Circular Economy Policy Statement

Sets the ambition and approach for a circular economy in NSW and highlights sustainable procurement as a key focus area to drive demand for recovered materials and reusable products.

NSW Clean Air Strategy

Presents the NSW Government approach to improving air quality and protecting communities by minimising or eliminating air pollution from sources such as industry, transport, engines and fuels.

NSW Climate Change Adaptation Strategy

Promotes ambitious and transformative adaptation to climate change through proactive action and informed and integrated decision-making.

NSW Decarbonising Infrastructure Delivery Policy

This policy sets the direction and provides guidance for the decarbonisation of infrastructure delivery including requirements relevant to procurement.

NSW Government Resource Efficiency Policy

Prescribes measures, targets and minimum standards to drive the efficient use of resources in government operations.

NSW Net Zero Plan Stage 1: 2020-2030

Sets out how the NSW Government will achieve net zero by 2050 focusing on actions to be undertaken between 2020-2030.

NSW Procurement Policy Framework

Sets out the policy and operating framework for the NSW public sector procurement system. The framework includes taking account of circular economy principles in the procurement process.

Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

Aims to protect, restore and enhance the environment in NSW. The act also provides the mechanism for the development of Protection of the Environment Policies.

NSW Small and Medium Enterprise and Regional Procurement Policy

Aims to achieve value for money in government procurement while supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The policy requires procurements above $3 million to include a 10% non-price criterion to support the NSW Government's economic, ethical, environmental and social priorities.

NSW Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy 2041

Requires the preference of recycled content on an ‘if not, why not’ basis in procurement and harnessing the purchasing power of government to stimulate markets for recycled materials and circular design to reduce carbon-intensity of materials and products.

NSW Water Strategy

Encourages the procurement of goods and services that protect ecosystems and improve river and catchment health.