1. Price
There is apperception that green products are more expensive than conventional alternatives. This is true in some cases, particularly where development costs are reflected in the price; however, often there is no significant difference. The real problem may simply be that products are being ordered in small quantities, or are not available locally. Sometimes a green product may have a higher up-front purchase price, but will cost less over its lifetime. For example, a non-toxic alternative to a toxic product will cost less to transport, store, handle and discard. It will require fewer permits, less training for staff and the consequences of an accident will be greatly reduced. Similarly, a product that uses less packaging and that is easily recyclable or reusable will carry a lower disposal cost.
2. Lack of corporate commitment
For an organization to implement a green procurement program, it must have commitment from all levels, including senior management and purchasing agents. A policy statement outlining the corporate commitment to green procurement can help.
3. Insufficient knowledge
Many organizations are unfamiliar with the concept or green procurement or with the option available to them. For an organization to participate, it must have an understanding of concepts, vocabulary and terms.
4. Availability
Frequently, local distributors do not stock green products, or else they stock only small quantities. This can lead to delays in obtaining the product. Increasing market demand will help to overcome this obstacle.
5. No acceptable alternative
Another barrier to green purchasing can be simply a lack of acceptable alternatives to the present product. For example, a few years ago in the furniture
6. No specifications
It is important that suppliers be asked to provide the environmental specifications of the product they are offering. Purchasers, in the same way, must clearly define their needs and requirements.
7. Purchasing habits
We‘ve always done it this way‖ can be a difficult mentality to overcome. There may also be relationships between purchasers and suppliers that make it difficult to switch to alternatives.
