APINYA WIPATAYOTIN

State agencies will have to go green by the end of 2011 under a new cabinet resolution which requires government offices to purchase green products and sign service contracts only with firms with good environmental management.

Under the resolution, approved by the coup-appointed government during its last meeting on Jan 22, state agencies must spend a maximum of 60% of their office accessories procurement budget on eco-friendly products and services.

The term ''green products'' refers to those which are guaranteed by ISO 14001 and ISO 14024 as meeting environmental standards.

The Pollution Control Department has produced a list of 17 green items and services recommended for office uses, including toilet paper, A4 paper, photocopying machines, and cleaning and catering services.

Department chief Supat Wangwongwatana said the cabinet resolution was a significant step towards creating awareness of the need for environmental protection.

The department expected that 25% of state-run agencies will switch to green products and services by the end of this year, and all offices will go green by the end of 2011.

Mr Supat said the amount of budget spent on green products in each agency should increase from 25% this year to a maximum of 60% within four years.

The department is compiling a complete list of green products and services available in the country and will distribute it to agencies as a shopping guide.

Source: http://www.bangkokpost.com/News/13Feb2008_news21.php