Public procurement is a powerful tool, representing a significant 12.5% of Slovakia's GDP. It's not just about buying goods and services; it's a strategic lever that can help tackle some of today's most pressing challenges, from climate change to energy crises. But how "green" is this essential spending, particularly at the local level?
A recent report by Plaček, M. et al. (2025) offers an initial mapping of Green Public Procurement (GPP) in Slovak municipalities, shedding light on the current landscape, the barriers, and the opportunities for improvement. The study, a collaborative effort involving several universities including Charles University, American University's Kogod School of Business, and others, surveyed 121 politicians and directors across Slovakia to understand the facilitators and barriers to adopting and implementing green purchasing policies.