One of the considerations of green procurement is the ability to recycle products or their component parts after use. Buying recycled products or products containing recycled materials in the first place can reduce the waste stream, improve sustainability and help support and develop the market for these products.

"Extended Producer Responsibility" is an emerging concept in which manufacturers assume some or all of the burden of recycling their products. The Product Policy Institute is a non-profit research organization developing and supporting "cradle-to-cradle" policies and working to support local municipalities in their efforts to buy responsibly.

Many manufacturers have instituted "take-back" policies for their products, although not all publicize their programs. We found a good list at the Montana Department of Environmental Quality site. For a list of computer manufacturers who take back their products, visit www.epeat.net.

The EPA has developed Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines for recycled materials and products. Their web site has good information about specifications, available products and suppliers.