In its drive to go green the government this year issued €25 million in tenders that comply with environmental guidelines.

The drive is part of a wide initiative covering 18 categories of purchases made by the government.

Finance Minister Tonio Fenech and Environment Minister Mario de Marco this morning gave an overview of the nine-month old process.

Dr de Marco said that more than 120 tenders issued or currently being processed, fell within the chosen categories and met all criteria for green public procurement.

Mr Fenech said the process also required a change of mentality in the way government departments and entities handled their purchase requirements.

"This forms part of the government's drive to stimulate the green economy," Mr Fenech said.

The green sensitivity varies from the purchase of environmentally friendly cleaning products for schools to the Government's paper requirements. From street lighting to electronic equipment and cleaner vehicles.

The initiative also covers tenders issued by local councils.

All public tenders are screened to determine whether they fall within the scope of the initiative.

ksansone@timesofmalta.com