TCO Certified can be used in two main ways in procurement: as a requirement in technical specifications, or as part of a broader sustainable IT strategy.
The easy way — include TCO Certified in specifications
The simplest approach is to require products certified according to TCO Certified in your procurement documents. This ensures that all selected products meet a comprehensive set of environmental and social criteria, without the need for your own assessments. As proof of compliance, you should state that products are listed in Product Finder at delivery and throughout the contract period.
The comprehensive way — make TCO Certified part of your strategy
A more strategic approach is to integrate TCO Certified into your organization’s sustainable IT strategy. This includes preparing the organization, engaging stakeholders, and using procurement as a tool to drive sustainability goals. By doing so, you can track impacts and report on sustainability performance in areas such as climate, substances, circularity, and supply chain.
Using TCO Certified in procurement also helps influence the market. By clearly specifying your requirements and engaging suppliers early, you encourage IT brands to apply for certification and take new steps toward more sustainable practices.