It creates competitive advantage. Suppliers that perform
well environmentally and have SMEs gain competitive
advantage over those that do not. This advantage is
won by cost savings during production and supply, and
by posing less risk to downstream customers who have
a greater exposure to reputation damage. Domestically,
sustainable procurement is starting to drive more of the
$25 billion the Government spends each year purchasing
goods and services, and some large customers are
insisting that suppliers meet environmental standards
which exceed legislation.