The Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Program (EP³) requires City departments to consider products that have a lesser or reduced effect on human health and the environment when compared with competing products that serve the same purpose. Characteristics of Environmentally Preferable products include: alternative energy sources, bio-based, biodegradable, compostable, high recycled content, low toxicity, low volatile organic compounds, pollution reduction, recyclable, repairable, resource efficient, and reusable.

EP³ is jointly administered by the Environmental Services Department (ESD) and the Purchasing & Contracting Department (P&C). These departments are responsible for implementing the requirements of Administrative Regulation 35.80 and providing an annual report to the Mayor on the Citys progress.

To accomplish this, the Program has established the following goals:

• Increase purchases of recycled products and other EPPs through expanded access to citywide contracts.
• Educate City employees on the benefits and opportunities associated with EPPs.
• Institutionalize EPP procurement activities among City personnel.
• Improve tracking and reporting of EPP purchases.
• Provide outreach to vendors and service providers on the Citys Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Program.