23.100
Scope of subpart
Sustainable procurement requirements apply to all federal contract actions, including commercial and micro-purchases, making sustainability a universal obligation.
Overview
- FAR 23.100 establishes the scope for policies and procedures related to the procurement of sustainable products and services. It clarifies that these requirements apply broadly to all contract actions, including those using simplified acquisition procedures under FAR Part 12 for commercial products (including COTS items) and commercial services, regardless of contract value—even those at or below the micro-purchase threshold.
Key Rules
- Applicability to All Contract Actions
- The subpart's requirements apply to every contract action, not limited by contract size or type.
- Inclusion of Commercial and COTS Items
- Policies cover acquisitions of commercial products, COTS items, and commercial services, ensuring sustainability is considered in all relevant procurements.
- Micro-Purchase Threshold Coverage
- Even purchases at or below the micro-purchase threshold must comply with sustainable procurement policies.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must ensure all procurements, regardless of size or type, adhere to sustainable acquisition policies.
- Contractors: Should be prepared to offer sustainable products and services in all bids and proposals, including for small-value purchases.
- Agencies: Need to implement and oversee compliance with sustainable procurement requirements across all acquisition activities.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures sustainability is a universal consideration in federal procurement, closing loopholes for small or commercial purchases.
- Contractors must be aware that sustainability requirements are not limited to large or specialized contracts.
- Common pitfalls include overlooking sustainability requirements for micro-purchases or COTS acquisitions.