Continue to win public tenders also after January 1, 2024!

Elin Lie, Senior Consultant, QM365

As of January 1, 2024, the requirement for environmental management in public procurement will be tightened and all tenders must be weighted at least 30% on climate and environment. This blog post reviews what you need to prepare for before the new year so that you can continue to win public tenders.

Sustainable development has become a key factor for business success in today's increasingly environmentally conscious world. As we enter 2024, it has never been more important for organizations to demonstrate their commitment to environmental protection and sustainable practices. One of the most powerful ways to achieve this is through certified environmental management systems. These systems not only provide a framework for sustainable operations, but they also offer significant competitive advantages in national and international markets.

What is a certified environmental management system?

A certified environmental management system documents increased awareness of sustainable development and gives businesses a competitive advantage in national and international markets. It also provides policies and procedures for integrating environmental considerations into all aspects of the business. The most recognized standard for environmental management is ISO 14001, which has a global footprint. Through this framework, organizations can document, implement and improve their environmental performance in a systematic way.

Benefits of having a certified environmental management system:

1. Documented commitment to sustainability: Certified environmental management systems show that an organization takes sustainability seriously. This is important to attract customers and investors who value sustainable businesses.

2. Reducing environmental risks: By identifying and managing environmental risks, organizations can avoid potential environmental damage and the legal and reputational consequences that follow.

3. Cost savings: Through more efficient use of resources and energy, certified organizations can experience significant cost savings in the long term.

4. Better reputation: Having a certified environmental management system shows society that the organization takes responsibility for its actions and contributes to positive publicity.

Requirements in public procurement

As of January 1, 2024, the requirements for environmental management in public procurement in Norway have been significantly tightened. Climate and environmental considerations must now weigh at least 30% in tender processes. This means that companies that already have a certified environmental management system will have a significant advantage when competing for public contracts. These companies can point to their environmental certification as strong evidence of their ability to meet the requirements for sustainable procurement.

You need to prepare for this before the new year:

At a time when sustainability has become a key driver of success, certified environmental management systems give organizations a strong competitive advantage. They help organizations demonstrate their commitment to sustainable development, mitigate environmental risks, achieve cost savings, and build a positive reputation. With the increased requirements for environmental management in public procurement from 2024, these systems will become even more important for organizations' success in national and international markets.

To become certified, you need to implement an effective environmental management system that complies with standard requirements (ISO 14001 or Eco-Lighthouse/EMAS), which our system is designed to address. It's easy to customize for any type of business and industry.

Our advisors are highly skilled in environmental management and are happy to assist your business with input and expertise.

Wondering how to go about implementing a certified environmental management system? Download the guide below and get started with the process!