Environmentally preferable purchasing (EPP) means products or services that have a reduced effect on human health and the environment when compared to competing products or services that serve the same purpose. EPP is a way of purchasing that consider both cost and the environmental impacts of a product or service. EPP recognizes that informed purchasing choices are less harmful to our health in many ways, including products that:

• Have fewer or no toxic ingredients (cleaning supplies, thermometers)
• Are energy efficient (electronic goods, hybrid electric vehicles, light bulbs)
• Are powered by renewable sources of energy (solar electricity)
• Are recycled/recyclable (computers, carpet, office supplies)
• Are remanufactured (ink cartridges, street or traffic signs, tires)

By requesting EPP, you can reduce the potential impacts your purchasing choices have on the environment and help enhance the city’s commitment to the environment.