Denver's Sustainable Purchasing Policy (Executive Order 123) directs city agencies to prefer environmentally preferable, energy-efficient, recycled-content, and locally produced goods and services. It applies to city operations only and does not bind private businesses or residents.
Denver's Sustainable Purchasing Policy, codified through Mayoral Executive Order 123 and supporting CASR procurement guidelines, requires every city agency to weigh environmental, social-equity, and life-cycle cost factors when buying goods and contracting for services. The policy prioritizes EPEAT-registered electronics, ENERGY STAR appliances, recycled-content paper, low-emission vehicles, biobased cleaners, fair-labor apparel, and minority and women-owned business enterprises. Department of Finance Purchasing Division oversees compliance and reports annually. The policy is internal; private vendors may need to demonstrate certifications when bidding on city contracts. Residents and businesses are not bound by the rule, though many emulate the standards voluntarily through Certifiably Green Denver.
Because the policy is internal, enforcement is administrative. Agencies that fail to follow procurement criteria face audit findings, contract rebid requirements, and potential personnel discipline rather than fines or civil penalties.
Denver, CO
Denver's Climate Action Plan and 2020 voter-approved 0.25% Climate Protection Fund commit the city to net-zero greenhouse-gas emissions by 2040 and 100% rene...
Denver, CO
Denver's Green Buildings Ordinance (DRMC §10-300) and the 2022 Energy Code amendments require most new and reroofed buildings over 25,000 square feet to inst...
See how Denver's sustainable procurement rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.