What is sustainable and green purchasing?
Sustainable and green purchasing means we look beyond the lowest price when we buy goods, services, and construction work for the City. We consider how a project helps the environment, supports fair labour, and benefits our community. This approach helps us build a stronger, more resilient Wrenford while keeping taxpayer dollars working hard.
How we evaluate bids
When we issue a tender for a project valued at $50,000 or more, we use a balanced scoring system. Typically, we weigh 70 per cent toward price and technical quality, and 30 per cent toward social value. This means suppliers who demonstrate strong environmental practices, fair employment standards, and community benefits can earn higher scores. All bids must also meet the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) standards from the start.
Environmental standards in contracts
We expect our suppliers to protect local ecosystems and reduce their carbon footprint. Every construction bid must include the Contractor Environmental Responsibilities Package (CERP). Large projects also follow Standard General Conditions Article 20, which sets strict rules for pollution control, waste diversion, and energy use. We encourage suppliers to use local materials, minimize single-use packaging, and choose renewable energy where possible.
Supporting equity and local business
Wrenford invests in suppliers that help level the playing field. Our Indigenous Procurement Framework removes barriers for Indigenous-owned businesses, and our Living Wage Policy ensures that workers on City sites earn at least $22.50 an hour. We also run quarterly supplier information sessions and offer pre-bid workshops to help small and emerging businesses understand how to bid successfully. We do not keep a list of preferred suppliers; we evaluate every bidder fairly based on the criteria above.
Policies and resources
All purchasing at the City follows the Wrenford Sustainable Procurement Policy and the Supplier Code of Conduct. These documents set the baseline for ethical business, safe workplaces, and environmental care. Before you submit a bid, please review the Purchase Order Terms and Conditions and the Procurement Policy and Guidelines to understand our invoicing rules, payment terms, and reporting requirements.
If you have questions about green purchasing or social value in a specific tender, contact the Procurement team at [email protected] or reach out to Purchasing Manager Victor Almeida. We are here to help you succeed in the bidding process.