23.000
Scope
FAR 23.000 sets the foundation for integrating environmental protection, sustainability, and hazardous materials management into all federal acquisition activities.
Overview
FAR 23.000 establishes the scope for Part 23, outlining the federal government's commitment to environmentally responsible acquisition practices. This section sets the foundation for policies and procedures that promote environmental protection, encourage the use of sustainable products and services, and ensure the safe handling and notification of hazardous materials in government contracting. It signals that subsequent sections will provide detailed requirements for integrating environmental considerations into the acquisition process.
Key Rules
- Environmental Protection
- Acquisition policies must support efforts to protect and improve environmental quality.
- Sustainable Acquisition
- Agencies are directed to foster markets for sustainable products and services through their procurement actions.
- Hazardous Materials Management
- Proper handling and notification procedures for hazardous materials are required in government contracts.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must be aware of and implement policies that support environmental protection, sustainable acquisition, and hazardous materials management.
- Contractors: Should anticipate requirements related to sustainability and hazardous materials in solicitations and contracts.
- Agencies: Must develop and enforce acquisition policies that align with environmental and sustainability goals.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to ensure that environmental and sustainability considerations are integrated into federal procurement from the outset.
- It impacts daily contracting by requiring attention to environmental impacts, sustainable sourcing, and hazardous material protocols.
- Common pitfalls include overlooking environmental requirements or failing to properly address hazardous materials in contract documentation.