Malmö (Sweden) has been profiled in the latest GPP News Alertfor its decision to embed universal design principles into a 2021 framework contract for the supply of furniture. Universal design principles aim to make physical infrastructure, goods and services accessible to people of all sizes, ages and abilities.

The framework contract Malmö created, required suppliers to provide furniture that can be adapted to accommodate a range of individual preferences and abilities. The suppliers were also asked to actively incorporate universal design principles in a holistic manner in the development of their products and services. Despite some initial reluctance, the suppliers managed to successfully incorporate accessibility considerations within their regular quality and design-process.

The tender also included environmental criteria. The furniture had to include recycled materials and the suppliers had to be able to provide services to upgrade, repaint, repair and replace components that might wear over time. With this Malmö also fulfilled its objectives to purchase products and materials that have a minimal impact on the environment and energy consumption from a life-cycle perspective.

A more in-depth look at this tender and universal design principles can be found here.