Academic Catalog

Sustainable Procurement Policy

Policy 

The University of Dubai is committed to integrating sustainability principles into all aspects of its operations, including procurement and purchasing activities. This policy aims to promote environmental responsibility, social awareness, and ethical sourcing throughout the university's supply chain. By prioritizing sustainable products and services, UD strive to minimize our environmental impact, support local economies, and contribute to the well-being of communities and stakeholders.

1. Objectives

  1. Integrate sustainability considerations into procurement decisions and processes.

  2. Reduce the environmental footprint of purchased goods and services.

  3. Support local and diverse suppliers to enhance community development and inclusivity.

  4. Promote ethical sourcing and fair labor practices among suppliers.

  5. Increase awareness and engagement among staff, faculty, and students regarding sustainable procurement practices.

 

2. Guidelines

  1. Give preference to products and services that meet recognized sustainability standards, such as eco-label certifications, Energy Star, Fair Trade, and other relevant eco-certifications.

  2. Encourage purchasing from local and diverse suppliers to support the regional economy, foster diversity, and reduce transportation-related emissions.

  3. Prioritize products with lower environmental impacts throughout their lifecycle, such as those made from recycled materials, energy-efficient appliances, and products with reduced packaging waste.

  4. Ensure that suppliers comply with ethical standards and do not engage in practices that violate human rights, labor laws, or environmental regulations. 

  5. Consider the entire lifecycle of products during procurement decisions, from extraction to end-of-life disposal or recycling. Opt for products with longer lifespans and ease of recyclability.

  6. Collaborate with suppliers to optimize transportation and delivery processes, reducing emissions and environmental impacts associated with logistics.

  7. Encourage electronic procurement processes and reduce paper usage whenever possible, aiming for efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

 

3. Monitoring and Reporting

  • Conduct regular audits to assess compliance with the sustainable procurement policy and identify areas for improvement.

 

4. Training and Awareness 

Provide training sessions for university staff involved in procurement to raise awareness about sustainable purchasing practices and the importance of adhering to the policy.

Engage faculty, staff, and students through awareness campaigns and educational initiatives to encourage support and participation in sustainable procurement efforts.