ISI Publishes New Guide to Procuring Sustainable Infrastructure Services
Since the Envision framework was launched in 2012, over 400 projects have registered to use ISI’s Envision verification process, and ISI has announced 158 Envision-verified projects. Growing use of Envision and recognition of the need for guidance on early integration motivated ISI to work with the Envision Review Board (ERB) to develop a resource to assist infrastructure owners in procuring sustainable infrastructure services.
The new “Guide to Procuring Sustainable Infrastructure Services” provides guidance on integrating sustainability and the Envision framework into projects of all types. It covers best practices for assembling qualified sustainability teams, implementing Envision throughout the project lifecycle, and managing the verification process for Envision awards. It also offers practical advice and example procurement language to use when seeking services. This guide aims to help embed sustainability into projects more effectively, leading to better environmental, social, and economic outcomes.
To access this resource, you will need a free ISI user account, if you do not already have one. The guide is now located within the ISI user account dashboard, under the new section labeled “Procurement Resources.”
The objectives of this new resource are to:
- assist project owners in effectively procuring Envision-related services for sustainable infrastructure projects
- provide guidance on integrating the Envision framework throughout the entire project lifecycle, and
- provide customizable procurement language and evaluation criteria for owners looking for sustainability services that support their projects.
Key highlights of this resource include guidance on:
- Assembling Qualified Sustainability Teams: Describes the structure, roles, and qualifications of sustainability teams, emphasizing ENV SP credentials, organizational commitment to sustainability, and the benefits of inclusive procurement practices.
- Strategies for Integrating Envision Throughout the Project Lifecycle: Outlines sustainability considerations for each project phase, and offers advice on maintaining continuity across different disciplines and roles throughout the project.
- Approaches for Envision Implementation: Discusses procurement approaches for Envision services, key phase-specific considerations, and the importance of early stakeholder engagement.
- Managing the Envision Verification Process: Discusses setting realistic award targets, using ISI resources, and suggests inclusive efforts involving detailed planning and communications to support developing a high-quality verification application.
- Procurement Language and Evaluation Criteria: Provides customizable procurement language, evaluation criteria, and examples of scope and deliverables for various project types.
- Other Available Resources and Next Steps: Offers a glossary of common Envision terminology, directs users to additional ISI resources, and encourages ongoing engagement with the ISI community. Promotes staying informed about industry developments and fostering a culture of ongoing learning and adaptation in sustainable infrastructure practices.
