Being shortlisted for this award recognizes both the transparent procurement practices of the ILO and the sustainable infrastructure solutions that provide employment and low maintenance assets across the country in times of need.

BEIRUT (ILO News) - The ILO's EIIP Lebanon has been shortlisted for the UN Sustainable Procurement Project of the Year Award 2023, along with four other UN agencies, highlighting its remarkable accomplishments in sustainable procurement. This prestigious award acknowledges innovative global initiatives in sustainable procurement and is featured on the United Nations Global Marketplace (UNGM) platform under UN Procurement Awards 2023.

The Sustainable Procurement and Supply Chain category recognizes initiatives that align with environmental protection, social progress, and economic development, contributing to sustainable procurement and supply. It plays a crucial role in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 12on sustainable consumption and production, encompassing environmental, social, and economic dimensions.

Since 2017,the ILO EIIP Lebanon has been constructing sustainable infrastructure in Lebanon, creating public assets using local resource-based technology. The program provides short-term employment opportunities under decent working conditions and adheres to the ILO's Environmental and Social Safeguards Framework. It is fully funded by the German government through the KfW Development Bank.

The ILO EIIP Lebanon's awarded a Shortlisting certificate, which recognizes projects that have achieved significant milestones and demonstrated exceptional performance in sustainable procurement practices. The programme's inclusion as a finalist demonstrates its commitment to sustainable procurement and its accomplishments in promoting environmental, social, and economic sustainability.

The project's transparent procurement practices and sustainable infrastructure solutions have delivered value for money while advancing sustainable development objectives. It has prioritized ethical standards, fair labour practices, and environmental impact reduction in its supplier capacity building efforts. Richard Lorenz, the Chief Technical Advisor of the programme, expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed the commitment to promoting sustainable procurement practices and driving positive change in the industry.