THEORETICAL PRINCIPLES OF FORMING A SYSTEM OF “GREEN” PUBLIC PROCUREMENT IN UKRAINE

Abstract

The article examines the theoretical and practical aspects of establishing a system of green public procurement (GPP) in Ukraine as a tool for the ecologization of state policy and the promotion of sustainable development amid global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and increasing anthropogenic pressure on the environment.The relevance of the study stems from the fragmented nature and insufficient regulatory framework of GPP in Ukraine, coupled with the lack of a unified methodology for defining environmental criteria and evaluating their effectiveness.The purpose of the research is to substantiate the theoretical foundations and develop an adaptive GPP model that integrates international experience, the specifics of Ukraine’s legal and economic context, and the principles of sustainable development.Based on an analysis of contemporary scientific approaches and practices in EU countries, the key principles of GPP are identified: consideration of the full life cycle of goods or services, ensuring transparency of procedures, stimulating demand for environmentally responsible products, and integrating environmental criteria at all stages of the procurement process. The proposed GPP model comprises four interconnected components: principles, functional elements (regulatory, institutional, informational, and methodological support), implementation mechanisms (incorporating sustainability requirements into development strategies, pilot projects, and training for procurers), and performance evaluation indicators (environmental advantage coefficient, GPP share, tender competitiveness, and long-term economic benefits).The analysis highlights the need to harmonize Ukrainian legislation with European standards, establish specialized institutions to support GPP, develop a market for environmentally certified products, and implement training programs for public procurers. Specific measures are proposed, including the development of a national GPP concept, updating the legislative framework, creating an environmental monitoring module within the ProZorro system, and formulating sector-specific roadmaps. The study emphasizes the importance of fostering green innovations and ensuring competitive markets for eco-friendly products to enhance the scalability of GPP in Ukraine.