The UN China Sustainable Procurement Workshop was held in the Hongqiao International Central Business District, Shanghai from Nov 23 to 24.
The workshop was aimed at presenting the latest initiatives, plans and measures of governments and international organizations in promoting sustainable procurement, enhancing suppliers', especially small and medium-sized enterprises', understanding of sustainable procurement, and improving their ability to achieve sustainable development, said Zhangyi, deputy director of the China International Centre for Economic and Technical Exchanges (CICETE).
Participants pose for a photo at the UN China Sustainable Procurement Workshop. [Photo/ WeChat account: hongqiaoshangwuqu]
Organized by the CICETE, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS), and the government of Qingpu district, Shanghai, the event was attended by academicians, officials at governments and international organizations, entrepreneurs, as well as representatives from research institutes and consultancy firms at home and abroad.
James George, deputy resident representative of the UNDP China, said at the seminar that each procurement decision can be an opportunity to aid the sustainable development and inclusive growth of China and even the world. The UNDP also hopes to help China achieve its carbon goals by supporting its companies to reduce their carbon footprints in a sustainable manner, he added.
Anne-Claire Howard, director of the UNOPS Procurement Group, said sustainable procurement can help multiple goals, such as reducing costs and supply chain risks.
During the workshop, seven enterprises, including SGS Shanghai and Sany Heavy Industry Co, were recognized for their contributions to promoting sustainable procurement.
