UBC - The UBC Bulletin / 1-99

COPENHAGEN GREEN ACCOUNTS

The major objective of local Agenda 21 in Copenhagen is to make sure that the city is never accused of living in a "glass house" when it comes to environmental measures. Not only citizens and enterprises have to behave in more environmentally sound ways - even the city's administration itself has to take action.

The City of Copenhagen has in the last couple of years published annual green accounts for Copenhagen as a geographical area. In 1999, however, it will also launch its first green accounts covering its institutions, buildings etc. Initially, the consumption of electricity, water and heating will be shown to trace the areas of potential savings.

Concurrently, the city administration has begun the process of introducing environmental purchasing of goods and services. The significance of this is underlined by the fact that the largest workplace in Copenhagen is - the City of Copenhagen. In mid-1998 already the Energy, Water and Environment Administration decided to choose the most environmentally friendly products when buying cable, pipes, electronics and office supplies.

This department will also evaluate whether transport during working hours is carried out in environmentally friendly ways. Furthermore, it is to draw up the action plan for the introduction of ecological foods in day care institutions, educational institutions, nursing homes and hospitals. Alongside, the city is also developing the pilot project on environmental management in the city administration. After its evaluation in 1999, the project will recommend the policy on environmental management in all of the city's institutions.

Further informtaion:

Mr Joergen Dahl Madsen
City of Copenhagen Phone:
+45 33 66 58 00
Fax:
+45 33 66 71 33
e-mail:
joergen.dahl.madsen@miljoe.kk.dk

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