Sustainable public procurement: A lever for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

Public procurement, which represents a significant portion of the national economy (averaging between 13% and 20% of GDP), is a powerful tool for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In their calls for tenders, public entities are increasingly incorporating sustainability issues. By prioritizing eco-friendly products, they help reduce the carbon footprint and steer societies towards a greener and more inclusive economy. However, making sustainable changes to purchasing practices requires intentional effort. Although establishing a legal and institutional framework is essential, several obstacles remain, including a shift in mindset. Indeed, public buyers, who need training and support, must adopt the concept of a product's life-cycle cost.

To illustrate this publication, consult the descriptions of two programmes funded by the AFD to support Rwanda and Uzbekistan in their climate paths and the development of a green economy.