Instructions on selecting and using criteria in procurement

In the Criterion Bank, you can search sustainability criteria to be applied in procurement. These criteria can be utilised  

•    as minimum requirements in calls for tenders 
•    as a basis for the comparison of price-quality ratio 
•    or as terms of contract. 

The criteria in the Criterion Bank have been developed in dialogue with clients, suppliers and key stakeholders in the field. This will ensure that the criteria are compatible with the market situation and that they are market incentive, non-discriminatory, comparable, and verifiable.

The client prioritises and selects the most meaningful criteria for itself according to its own sustainability targets and experience. It is not sensible to demand that the suppliers meet all of the criteria for a product group proposed in the Criterion Bank. Even a single well-selected criterion can achieve the desired impact. 

The effectiveness of the criteria is ultimately always the responsibility of the client itself. Especially when setting new sustainability requirements or when combining various criteria, e.g. at the leadership level, it is always advisable to submit a request for information or arrange market dialogue to ensure the availability of products that meet the criteria.