The GBS set mandatory minimum and best practice standards for central government departments and the wider public sector to use in tender requirements and contract terms.
The GBS update covers 11 categories of procurement spend. Defra welcome your views on the Horticulture GBS proposals. The proposed updates have a focus on circular economy, addressing the environmental impacts of public procurement through ‘buy better, use better and use longer’ requirements, and ecolabels.
As part of the update, Defra are conducting a series of public webinars on the GBS categories over September. These webinars will be accompanied by a survey, which Defra are inviting attendees to respond to, to provide feedback on the proposed updates.
The survey is open from Monday 11th August to Monday 6th October 2025 – see this link Government Buying Standards. If members have any questions or access issues, please contact Government_Buying_Standards@defra.gov.uk. There are two webinars on Horticulture GBS proposals. Click on links to register for the webinars.
Thursday 4th September 10:00-11:00: Horticulture, Landscaping and Park Services
Monday 15th September 13:00-14:00: Horticulture, Landscaping and Park Services