Environmentally Preferable Purchasing for Rhode Island
What is EPP?
How can EPP get started in RI?
4 Sample EPProducts

 

Why does Rhode Island need EPP?

EPP could save Rhode Island an estimated $108,872 and 813 Metric Ton Carbon Equivalent (MTCE), based on Massachusetts' reported FY 2001 savings*. Similarly, it is estimated that EPP will conserve 3566 cubic yards of landfill space per year in the Johnston Landfill. The Rhode Island Source Reduction Committee of the Waste Management Working Group recommends EPP as a necessary step to managing waste in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island needs EPP to be compliant with the existing state and federal laws. RIGL 37-2-76 calls for procurement specifications to be produced by the Department of Administration and the Department of Environmental Management, but representives from several agencies report that this is not working. The law currently lacks the funding and support it needs to come into practice. In addition, RCRA 6002 requires state agencies spending appropriated federal funds in excess of $10,000 to follow the federal Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines. This law is also not being followed by some agencies, leaving them liable to lawsuit.

In 2003, Governor Carcieri recommitted to the New England Governors' and Eastern Canadian Premiers' Greenhouse Gas Initiative, by promising to reduce Rhode Island's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to 1990 levels by 2010. EPP will be an important step in acheiving this goal to slow global climate change by reducing the GHGs produced by Rhode Island. To view the NEGC/ECP Climate Change Action Plan 2001, click here.

The long term effect of greenhouse gas reduction will help preserve Rhode Island's economy and quality of life. To find out more about the expected effects of climate change in Rhode Island click the impact analysis link on the left.

*All calculations are derived by dividing Massachusetts' reported savings with EPP in FY 2001 by five, the factor difference between Massachusetts' annual budget expenditure and Rhode Island's. Click here to view that report.

 

To save Rhode Island $$$

  


To come into compliance with state and federal laws

  


To keep regional promises to reduce greenhouse gas emissions

  


Click to view impact analysis of climate change in Rhode Island

  
   
 


Mass FY 2001savings


$544,362


4,063


17,828


 



Fiscal savings

Metric Ton Carbon Equivalent
(MTCE)

Landfill space
(cubic yards)


RI projected savings


$108,872


813


3,566


  

 

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