1. Purpose and Vision
– Align procurement activities with the European University of Lefke sustainability goals.
– Promote ethical, social, and environmental responsibility in all purchasing decisions.
2. Key Principles
– Environmental Responsibility: Prioritize products and services with minimal environmental impact, considering factors like energy efficiency, recyclability, and reduced carbon footprint.
– Social Equity: Support suppliers that uphold fair labor practices, diversity, and community engagement.
– Economic Sustainability: Balance cost-effectiveness with long-term value, considering the total lifecycle cost of goods and services.
3. Implementation Strategies
– Supplier Engagement: Work with suppliers to encourage sustainable practices, such as reducing packaging and adopting cleaner production methods.
– Staff Training: Educate staff involved in procurement on sustainable purchasing principles and practices.
– Policy Integration: Embed sustainability criteria into all procurement processes, including supplier selection and contract management.
– Reduce Unnecessary Usage: Identify areas of overuse and establish guidelines to minimize the consumption of products, such as stationery, electronics, and disposables, while encouraging reuse and resource-sharing.
– Digital Transformation: Transition to digital solutions where possible, such as e-documents instead of printed materials, to reduce paper usage.
– Repair and Maintenance: Establish programs to repair and maintain equipment instead of replacing them prematurely.
– Behavioral Change Initiatives: Promote awareness campaigns within the university to encourage conscious consumption and sustainable choices among students and staff.
4. Monitoring and Reporting
– Regularly assess the environmental and social impact of procurement activities.
– publish annual reports on progress toward sustainability goals.
5. Community and Collaboration
– Partner with local businesses and small enterprises to support the local economy.
– Collaborate with other universities and organizations to share best practices and resources.