The Government are committed to ensuring that businesses and communities across the UK, including in Wales, are able to benefit fully from the opportunities presented by hosting the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. We are working closely with the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA), the body responsible for constructing the Games facilities, as well as the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (London 2012 Organising Committee) to realise this aim. We have established a nations and regions group involving each constituent part of the UK and English regions, and each member of the group has been tasked with developing plans to ensure that they take full advantage of the benefits presented by the Games, including procurement opportunities.
The Government recognise that the Games present a unique opportunity to showcase the path to sustainability in the UK as a whole, including in the use of sustainable materials. The materials used in the construction of the Olympic Park and venues are a key aspect of the ODA’s commitment to delivering sustainable development, and it is committed to identifying, sourcing and using environmentally and socially responsible materials. Its sustainable development strategy, published on 23 January, set out its policy in relation to use of sustainable materials in more detail.
The London 2012 Organising Committee will manage its procurement policy separately from the ODA, but will also adopt fair and sustainable procurement principles. Its procurement policy and associated strategy is currently being developed and a sustainable development plan for the Olympic programme overall will be published in the spring.