Brussels, 25 October 2011 – The European Parliament has approved a resolution calling for reforms to the EU rules of public procurement contracts, calling for them to become simpler, more inclusive and more flexible.
Price should no longer be the determining factor in awarding contracts, but it should be replaced by the, “most advantageous tender in terms of economic, social and environmental benefits, taking into account the entire life-cycle costs of the good, service or work”.
They have therefore asked the Commission to develop a methodology for working out life-cycle costs that addresses all sustainability issues. Criteria based on sustainable and ethically responsible production should find a place here.
MEPs also hope that simplifying European public procurement rules will help to promote sustainable and innovative procurement. Using, for example, specifications relating to performance rather than detailed technical requirements, is more likely to lead to innovative and environmentally friendly procurement outcomes. Tenders should also be open to alternative bids, and these should be considered from a sustainable development standpoint.
For more information and the text of the resolution, please click here.