Help Agencies Meet Plastic Waste Reduction Goals:
In a major step toward sustainability, the General Services Administration (GSA) has finalized its Reduction of Single-Use Plastic Packaging rule, amending the GSA Acquisition Regulation (GSAR). This update aims to significantly reduce plastic waste by encouraging contractors to offer and clearly label products with single-use plastic (SUP)-free packaging on GSA Advantage!®. With a new SUP-free icon, agency buyers can easily identify environmentally friendly options and align with their plastic waste reduction goals.
What is SUP-Free Packaging?
SUP-free packaging refers to product and shipping containment materials that do not contain single-use plastics. The GSAR amendment provides detailed definitions:
Product Packaging: Primary or sales packaging that contains individual units, such as plastic casings.
Grouped or Secondary Packaging: Bulk or branded packaging for grouping or displaying products.
Shipping Packaging: Materials used for transport protection, such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts.
Ancillary/Redundant Packaging: Packaging that does not provide additional protection, like excessive bubble wrap over a durable product.
The rule emphasizes eliminating unnecessary single-use plastics in all these forms.
How to Offer SUP-Free Packaging on GSA Advantage!
Contractors can now showcase SUP-free products with a dedicated icon on GSA Advantage! Here’s how:
For New Offers:
Complete GSAR Provision 552.238-118: Identify SUP-free packaging in your eOffer application when submitting a new proposal.
Include Associated Costs: Reflect any costs or savings for SUP-free packaging in your pricing.
For Existing MAS Contractors:
Accept Refresh 23: This update incorporates SUP-free packaging provisions and new contract clauses.
Submit a Modification Request: Update your Terms and Conditions in eMod to include GSAR 552.238-118.
Update Your Catalog: Use the appropriate method to tag products with the SUP-free icon:
SIP Users: Select “Single-Use Plastic (SUP) Free Packaging” under Environmental/Special Features.
EDI Users: Use code “SU” in your catalog file.
SUP-Free Packaging in the Verified Products Portal (VPP)
Manufacturers and authorized partners can now tag products as SUP-free in the Verified Products Portal (VPP). These products will be highlighted with the new icon, making them easily identifiable to buyers.
The SUP-Free Icon: Making Sustainable Choices Visible
The SUP-free packaging icon is more than just a label—it’s a call to action. The icon will be applied to qualifying products across GSA systems and prominently displayed on the Strategies to Reduce Plastic in Packaging page of the Sustainable Facilities Tool. Contractors can also download and use the icon on their own websites, following the GSA Logo Policy.
Why This Matters
Reducing single-use plastic waste is critical for meeting federal sustainability goals and minimizing environmental impact. This initiative not only supports these efforts but also provides MAS contractors a valuable opportunity to stand out as sustainability leaders.
By adopting SUP-free packaging practices and leveraging the new icon, contractors can attract eco-conscious agency buyers and contribute to a greener future.
Take the first step today—review the updated guidance, modify your offers, and start showcasing your sustainable packaging solutions on GSA Advantage!
For more information contact us. info@kandge.com
