Procurement
Nearly every Request for Proposal (RFP) now being posted at Western makes some reference to sustainability. For example:
- Printing RFPs require that the paper used in print publications be recycled or certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
- Power consumption specifications were part of the evaluation criteria for a major photocopier program RFP.
- A recent RFP was issued for recycling that allowed Western to expand its recycling efforts in the collection of plastics and glass while continuing with composting and the diversion of waste from landfills.
- The recently-awarded Hospitality Services RFP included a requirement for food containers that decompose rather than sit in landfill sites as well as a request that vendors source local produce when it is in season.
- Western’s most recent RFP for Custodial Consulting Services will identify world-class industry benchmarks against which to compare current campus cleaning processes and make any changes that will elevate Western’s caretaking services to meet these benchmarks.
Facilities Management has tested green cleaning products this past year and plans to establish a green program that outlines the use of environmentally friendly cleaning products campus wide.
Western’s Office Supplies warehouse and Physical Plant have established programs for recycling toner cartridges, batteries and light bulbs.
The campus is now using Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified paper in all copiers and printers.
