Required specifications

Purchasers must include these specifications, unless not possible:

• RCW 43.19A: Recycled Product Procurement set a goal of substantially increasing the state’s purchases of recycled-content products, directs the state to set recycled-content standards, and authorizes state agencies to specify, give priority to and/or offer price preferences for products that contain recycled materials.
• Accordingly, all napkins must contain at least 30% post-consumer recycled content (PCRC), which complies with the U.S. EPA’s Comprehensive Procurement Guideline (CPG) for Napkins. Products with a higher percentage of recycled content than the applicable U.S. EPA CPG for this category are eligible for a price preference of 10%.

Preferred specifications

Purchasers should include these specifications, unless not possible:

• In addition, DES’ Recycled Content Purchasing Preference Policy (POL-DES-255-00) states, “In establishing environmental requirements and preferences for products that contain recycled materials, agencies shall reference the current U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines (EPA CPGs) as the minimum standards for the state of Washington.” This policy also directs state agencies to offer a purchasing preference of at least 10% to bidders whose products have a recycled-content percentage that exceeds the EPA CPG minimum.
• Certification by Green Seal or UL ECOLOGO (multi-attribute certifications).
• Certification by the Forest Stewardship Council (e.g., FSC Recycled).
• 100% total recycled content.
• Napkins that are unbleached or labeled process chlorine-free (PCF). (Note: PCF is a stronger standard than elemental chlorine-free (ECF), which allows the use of some chlorine compounds).
• Napkins that go into a table-top or wall-mounted dispenser.

Laws, rules, and executive orders

These laws, rules, and executive orders must be included in the contract language:

• RCW 43.19A: Recycled Product Procurement
• DES’ Recycled Content Purchasing Preference Policy (POL-DES-255-00)
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines (EPA CPGs)
• Comprehensive Procurement Guideline (CPG) for napkins

Find these products on statewide contracts

Find products that meet Washington’s green purchasing specifications:

• Contract 16722: Food Service Disposables

End of life

Surplus goods that still can be used

• Use surplus disposal to get rid of items you no longer need. Keep materials out of landfills and make funds for your agency.

Recycling and disposal

Hazardous waste disposal guidelines and options:

• Department of Ecology: Dispose, recycle, or treat dangerous waste
• Washington Recycles