THE SENATE	S.R. NO.	46
TWENTY-FIFTH LEGISLATURE, 2010
STATE OF HAWAII

SENATE RESOLUTION

 

 

Urging the development of criteria and recommendations for the implementation of an environmentally preferred purchasing policy for the state.

 

 

     WHEREAS, the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative is charting a new path toward an energy-independent future for Hawaii, by reducing Hawaii's energy use through increased efficiency and developing local renewable energy sources; and

 

     WHEREAS, Hawaii is committed to the stewardship of the environment and developing a sustainable way of life; and

 

     WHEREAS, the state government is one of the largest employers in the State, and has great purchasing power; and

 

     WHEREAS, by reducing the adverse environmental impact of the State's purchasing decisions by buying goods and services from manufacturers and vendors who share this commitment to the environment, the state government can minimize negative environmental and social effects through the use of environmentally friendly products; and

 

     WHEREAS, environmentally preferred purchasing, green procurement, affirmative procurement, eco-procurement, and environmentally responsible purchasing all refer to the method whereby environmental and social considerations are given equal weight with the price, availability, and performance criteria that institutions use to make purchasing decisions; and

 

     WHEREAS, similar procurement policies have been implemented by the federal government, in several cities including Santa Monica and Berkeley, California, and major institutions including Arizona State University; and

 

     WHEREAS, the Department of Accounting and General Services has been certified as a Hawaii Green Government Agency, and has made significant improvements to state buildings to reduce energy and water usage; and

 

     WHEREAS, institutional green purchasing, combined with facility improvements, will have a significant impact on reducing Hawaii's energy consumption and promote similar practices throughout the State; and

 

     WHEREAS, ENERGY STAR fluorescent light bulbs use seventy-five per cent less energy and last ten times longer than incandescent bulbs; and

 

     WHEREAS, purchasing recyclable and biodegradable products, such as paper towels, hand soaps, and other disposable products can help promote the businesses that supply these products and reduce pollution to our ocean and the water supply; and

 

     WHEREAS, purchasing only vehicles with high efficiency ratings will save money, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and demonstrate a strong commitment to Hawaii's clean energy future; now, therefore,

 

     BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the Twenty-fifth Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2010, that the Procurement Policy Board is urged to develop criteria and recommendations for the implementation of an environmentally preferred purchasing policy for the State; and

 

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Procurement Policy Board shall submit a report to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the 2011 Regular Session on its findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation; and

 

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Resolution be transmitted to the Governor and the Chairperson of the Procurement Policy Board.

 

 

 

	OFFERED BY:	_____________________________

Report Title: 

Procurement Policy Board; Environmentally Preferred Purchasing