Purchasing
Since 2008, the Purchasing Department has worked with suppliers to encourage more efficient manufacturing and delivery processes that fulfill the University’s evolving sustainability requirements. Some of Princeton’s most aggressive green purchasing initiatives include its transition to chemical-free “blue” cleaning products and its policy to purchase only 100 percent post-consumer chlorine-free recycled printer and copier paper. Princeton also participates actively in one national and four regional purchasing cooperatives, which provide opportunities for broader sustainability impact among suppliers.
Goal
Encourage sustainability in the supply chain and procurement of purchased goods and services.
Progress
In 2016, 91 percent of general-use office paper purchased was 100 percent post-consumer recycled, chlorine-free paper, up from 67 percent in 2008.
What’s Next
Explore the Vendor Practices Life Cycle Assessment model for incorporation into the Procurement Department’s bidding process.
Explore compostable coffee pod options to enhance breakroom sustainability activities.
Continue the project of implementing a managed print environment across a subset of campus locations to pilot the benefits of an integrated print environment.
Pursue opportunities to partner with local catering/food delivery services to enhance commitment to sustainability in areas such as food sourcing, packaging and food waste.