David Wagger, Ph.D., ISRI’s Chief Scientist/Director of Environmental Management, has been selected to serve as a Representative member in the General Services Administration (GSA) Acquisition Policy Federal Advisory Committee (GAP FAC). He was appointed for a two-year term by GSA Administrator Robin Carnahan. The GAP FAC is governed by the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act.
“I am very excited about David’s appointment and the opportunity it provides to add the voice of ISRI and the recycled materials industry to the discussions occurring in the federal government around sustainability,” says ISRI President Robin Wiener.
Announced in April 2022, the GAP FAC will advise GSA on using acquisition tools and authorities to target high priority challenges like addressing the climate crisis and increasing sustainability across the government. It will also advise on emerging acquisition issues, challenges, and opportunities to support GSA’s role as America’s buyer.
“We have a responsibility as the world’s largest buyer to solicit ideas from top experts in both the public and private sector about how we approach acquisition, particularly in regards to priorities like advancing sustainability and tackling climate change,” says GSA Administrator Robin Carnahan. “I look forward to seeing how this committee can help uncover new strategies and approaches to help us buy cleaner.”
After the announcement, GSA’s Office of Government-wide Policy vetted over 100 candidates and built a diverse committee whose members include representatives from industry, including small businesses; federal, state, and local governments; industry associations; and academia.
As one of the representatives, Wagger will provide the committee with the perspective and insights of the recycling industry. “There’s an adage that if you’re not at the table then you’re on the menu,” he says. “We want to have some say in the decisions made by GSA on acquisition policies such as recycled content.”
GAP FAC’s initial focus will be on driving regulatory, policy, and process changes required to embed climate and sustainability considerations in Federal acquisition. This includes examining and recommending steps GSA can take to support its workforce and industry partners in ensuring climate and sustainability issues are fully considered in the acquisition process.
“This role will give ISRI a seat at the table,” Wagger adds. “We want to make sure GSA takes in the full lifecycle of the issues so they can make well-informed decisions.”
The GSA will be hosting the first GAP public meeting Sept. 22.
Featured Image Caption: General Services Administration. Courtesy: Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Body Image: Courtesy of ISRI.
