FR/OFB: call for expressions of interest to better integrate biodiversity items into public procurement

The Office Français de la Biodiversité (French Biodiversity Agency) has launched a call for expressions of interest aimed at French local authorities, with a view to facilitating the incorporation of biodiversity-related criteria into their public procurement, it announced on 1 September 2026.

Indeed, public procurement accounts for “8 per cent of national GDP (2021 figures). Given the volumes involved and the diversity of procurement types it covers, it is a potentially significant lever for steering markets and driving change in business practices”, states the OFB.

However, in 2023, only 29 per cent (by number) of public contracts worth €90,000 or more (excluding VAT) included an environmental clause.

Through this call for applications, which remains open until 30 October, the OFB is seeking five local authorities, representative of the diversity of French local authorities, “wishing to receive support throughout all stages of various types of procurement procedures (e.g. building works, green spaces, Nature-based Solutions, catering, roads, waste management, etc.)”.

The OFB adds…