23.400 Scope of subpart
Source: FAR 23.400 on acquisition.gov
FAR 23.400 sets the foundation for contractor and agency compliance with environmental laws, management systems, and waste reduction in federal contracting.
Overview
- FAR 23.400 outlines the scope of Subpart 23.4, which establishes the policies and procedures for ensuring government and contractor compliance with environmental regulations. It focuses on obtaining necessary information for right-to-know laws, enforcing contractor adherence to environmental management systems, and promoting waste reduction at federal facilities.
Key Rules
- Right-to-Know Laws and Pollution Prevention
- Agencies must gather information to comply with laws that require disclosure of hazardous substances and pollution prevention efforts.
- Contractor Environmental Management Systems
- Contractors are expected to comply with environmental management systems as part of their contractual obligations.
- Waste Reduction at Federal Facilities
- Policies and procedures are in place to ensure waste reduction practices are implemented at federal sites.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure solicitations and contracts include requirements for environmental compliance and reporting.
- Contractors: Adhere to environmental management systems and provide necessary information for compliance.
- Agencies: Oversee implementation of waste reduction and compliance with right-to-know laws.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to promote environmental responsibility in federal contracting.
- It impacts daily operations by requiring both agencies and contractors to prioritize pollution prevention, information sharing, and waste reduction.
- Common pitfalls include failing to collect or provide required environmental information, or not integrating environmental management systems into contract performance.
This subpart prescribes policies and procedures for—
(a) Obtaining information needed for Government compliance with right-to-know laws and pollution prevention requirements;
(b) Contractor compliance with environmental management systems; and
(c) Ensuring waste reduction at Federal facilities.