Public procurement is once again at the center of the European agenda. In her State of the Union address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the introduction of a “Made in Europe” criterion in public tenders, aimed at strengthening industrial supply chains and supporting clean technologies. This move underscores the strategic value of public spending as a driver for both industrial policy and the ecological transition.
Against this backdrop, Fondazione Ecosistemi is organizing a special event on 24 September in Rome, hosted at Europa Experience – David Sassoli, to spotlight the BESA – Buy European and Sustainable Act campaign. The meeting will bring together institutions, businesses, and local authorities to discuss how Italy can contribute to the upcoming reform of the EU Public Procurement Directive, expected by 2026.
Every year, public administrations across the EU spend more than €2 trillion, the equivalent of 14% of the Union’s GDP. If strategically directed, this spending has the power to cut emissions, create skilled jobs, and strengthen Europe’s industrial competitiveness. The BESA campaign calls for the revised directive to include binding criteria that reward sustainable businesses and give greater value to European supply chains.
The Rome event marks an important step on the road to the 20th edition of the Forum Compraverde Buygreen, to be held in 2026, and reaffirms Italy’s pioneering role in advancing green public procurement policies.
Procurement that matters. Italy for a sustainable and competitive Europe.
24 September, Europa Experience – Rome
