Summary

Green procurement policies, which focus on purchasing durable information and communication technology (ICT) equipment and recycling e-waste, can help reduce emissions and resource extractions and influence the market by increasing demand and stimulating research and product development.

Recommendation ITU-T L.1061 provides technical guidance to public sector organizations on improving their procurement practices to purchase more circular ICT goods and services. The Recommendation covers the purchase of ICT equipment such as personal computers, terminals, network equipment and servers, and imaging equipment, and recommends specific requirements in procurement to (1) minimize the generation of e-waste and its adverse effects; (2) maximize the use of energy-efficient equipment; (3) maximize the useful life of equipment; and (4) maximize recyclability. It also covers design for e‑waste prevention and procurement recommendations which are relevant for the management choices of the e-waste hierarchy, as well as specific requirements and guidance on procurement to enhance the energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to mitigate climate change and reduce the emissions of hazardous substances in e-waste.