Certifications and standards
Procurement and Contract Services provides a variety of paper products available for purchase, many of which have recycled content. The following certifications and standards can help guide sustainable procurement options:
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FSC ensures a chain of custody on certified products that source paper from either recycled or responsibly managed forests. FSC is an independent, non-profit organization that protects forests for future generations.Ìý
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Green Seal is non-profit environmental standard that uses a lifecycle approach to assess environmental impact, providing certification for a variety of products and services including paper and cleaning products.
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The Rainforest Alliance certification program focuses on farming and forestry practices that enhance forest protection, climate-smart practices, human rights, and sustainable livelihoods.Ìý
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SFI is a solutions-oriented sustainability organization that collaborates on forest-based conservation and community initiatives that demonstrate and enhance our shared quality of life.
Things to consider
Before making a purchasing decision, consider these guiding principles of sustainable procurement:
Buy credibly certified products
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Make sure to request options that are third-party certified such as Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Green Seal, Rainforest Alliance Certified, or Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI)ÌýCertified.Ìý
- TIP: The W-Store sells FSC-certified paper as its standard, making it easy and convenient to find on campus!
Buy circular
- Look for products that integrate post-consumer-recycled paper.ÌýA box of paper with 30% recycled content is cheaper than purchasing virgin paper! Visit theÌýProcurement & Contract ServicesÌýsite for pricing and information.
- Have efforts been made to limit excess packaging and resulting waste?
- Can the product and/or packaging be disposed of through existing campusÌýwaste programs?ÌýRefer to theÌýShift:Zero Sorting GuideÌýif unsure.
Minimize unnecessary purchases
- Discuss with the office/department if there truly is a need to print and explore paperless options. There areÌýa growing number of offices on campus that are opting for paperless processes on campus, many of whom are in the Green Office program and would be happy to share insights.