Effects of a green purchasing strategy: the case of Belfast City Council

Green purchasing has seen an increase of attention from researchers but as yet few case studies are available. The responsibility being placed on local councils to consider not only the economic but also social and environmental impacts sets a new agenda. Both these changes suggest a new role for local government purchasing, one which embraces “greening”. This paper outlines the green purchasing strategy adopted by Belfast City Council set against a local government background. The case demonstrates an integrated approach to achieving objectives relating to local economic development, environment and purchasing.