Sustainable public procurement: an analysis of federal public administration from 2012 to 2016

Abstract

Sustainability is currently one of the largest and most controversial discussions worldwide. Governmental and social leaders recognise the interdependence between mankind and the environment and debate how to balance economic development, environmental protection, and social inclusion. Sustainable public procurement, which includes the acquisition of products, services, and engineering projects that consider environmental issues were among the proposals of these public leaders. Sustainable public procurement is a strategy based on the state purchasing power to promote economic, environmental, and social development in nations in a harmonious way. In line with this argument, Brazil promoted in its legal framework the conditions for sustainable public procurement, aiming for sustainable national development. The goal of this study is to analyse the progression of sustainable public procurement in federal public administration from 2012 to 2016. In regards to methodology, this is a qualitative study with bibliographical and exploratory aspects. A growth in sustainable public procurement was observed in federal public administration, although still incipient. The ministry of education was the public body that demonstrated most increase in sustainable public procurement during the examined period.