Purchasing
Accomplishments
The Purchasing Department is continually investigating eco-friendly products and services for the college community. For the past two years a recycled and eco-friendly office products fair has been held as part of the college’s Sustainability Month activities. In coordination with the Facilities Department and with funding from the Class of 1957, Vending Misers were installed on all vending machines to reduce the amount of electricity for the operation of these machines. Contracted beverage machines on campus were negotiated to include Enviro-Cool technology. The laundry machines purchased for the residence halls have been converted to front load washers and energy-star rated appliances are used across campus. Dormitory furniture specifications incorporate environmental best practices such as using hardwoods from state regulated forests, not using rain forest species and a finishing system that emit zero VOC’s into the atmosphere.
The department has instituted a process in all Requests For Proposals (RFP) asking bidders to demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship by reporting on any and all policies related to their sustainability efforts, conservation and reduced environmental footprints as part of the required bid criteria.
Used toner cartridges are collected at the Distribution Center and recycled through our office supply vendor. Good quality, reusable surplus furniture is stocked at the Distribution Center for reuse on campus. Other fair condition furniture not used by the campus is donated to local non-profit organizations.
Initiatives
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Pursue the adoption of a green purchasing policy
Implementation: Investigate in coordination with the Sustainability Advisory Committee (Fall 2008)