Sustainable Purchasing Policy, Arizona State University

Type: Policy

Status: Adopted in the 1990s

Source File: http://sustainability.asu.edu/giosmain/campus/purchasing.htm

Description:

Purchasing and Policy
CAMPUS INITIATIVES

Purchasing and Business Guidelines
Since the 1990s, ASU has incorporated sustainable purchasing, business, and service practices into its policies. While these policies have had a positive impact on reducing ASU´s energy and water consumption and waste, the University is further developing its guidelines to be more comprehensive and up-to-date with the multitude of practical, sustainable technologies and practices that this institution can implement.

• No or low volatile organic compound (VOC) products have been specified for purchase for the past 10 years.
• All carpeting for purchase is specified as 100% recyclable.
• Liquid crystal displays, rather than cathode ray tube monitors, are specified for purchase.
• A 5% preference is given for purchasing recycled products.
• Recycled products, through ASU Stores and the office supply company, Staples, are stocked.
• All of the panel lights in outside vending machines have been turned off.
• Snack machines are located preferably inside buildings so that they do not require refrigeration.
• Vending contracts require the use of energy miser energy conservation devices.
• If an Energy Star product is available in any category, that product will be bought before any non-Energy Star certified product.
• LEED Silver certification for all new construction of University-owned and operated buildings.
• Non-recyclable engraved signs are being phased out and replaced with a changeable, recyclable/reusable sign system.

Contractor Provisions
The Living Wage Coalition at ASU has spearheaded the implementation of a Values Based Standard for Significant Business Relationships, which governs ASU´s relationships with contractors agreeing to a term of one year or more and employing 10 or more workers whose primary place of employment is at an ASU campus. In addition to mandatory contract provisions such as nondiscrimination, a safe and harassment-free work environment, and prohibition of controlled substances and weapons, contractors are asked to address several preferred provisions such as socially responsible wages, environmentally responsible practices, and employee education and training. Compliance with these preferred provisions may impact the evaluation and selection of University contractors.