2.5. GREENING PROJECT AND OFFICE MANAGEMENT

Whilst the EU promotes a green and just transition in its external action, it should also lead by example. Nothing is more convincing when promoting transformational change than practising what we preach. Day-to-day operations, both in EU offices and in EU-funded projects, offer ample opportunities to minimise our environmental and climate footprint, by modifying our energy and water consumption, the way we travel, what we eat and the goods and services we buy. Engaging and raising the awareness of colleagues and implementing partners in green practices can have a multiplier effect, as these practices are incorporated into both EU operations and personal habits. Remember that small acts can have a big impact! These are the reasons underlying the Commission long-standing efforts to improve its environmental performance, notably through the implementation of its Eco Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS).

Quick Tips on greening project and office management are available in capacity4dev. The Quick Tips provides concrete tips for the greening of procurement, calls for proposal and tenders, missions, events and meetings, reports and deliverables, and office management, amongst others.

The new Guidelines on organising sustainable meetings and events at the Commission provide concrete guidance on this aspect, including a useful checklist.

More detailed recommendations for the greening of calls for proposals and of procurement are provided in Annex 10 (CfP) and Annex 11 (procurement).

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