Tanta University Policy on Sustainable Procurement

Preamble

In line with Tanta University's commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, we aim to integrate sustainability into our procurement practices. This policy sets forth our commitment to consider the environmental, social, and economic implications of our purchasing decisions.

Aims

The key aims of this policy include:

• Reducing the environmental footprint of our procurement activities.
• Advocating for suppliers who are actively engaged in sustainable practices.
• Promoting fair labor practices and economic growth.
• Ensuring cost-effectiveness over the lifespan of the products and services we procure.
  https://tanta.edu.eg/gsec/Procurement%20and%20stores.aspx

Policy Guidelines

To realize these aims, Tanta University is working to the following guidelines:

1. Vendor Assessment
   • Preference will be given to vendors who demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and ethical practices.
   • Vendors' labor practices and adherence to fair trade principles have been considered.
   • Vendors have been encouraged to provide detailed information about the environmental and social impacts of their products and services.
2. Evaluation of Products and Services
   • The environmental, social, and economic impacts of products and services have been considered throughout their lifecycle, from production to disposal.
   • Products and services that are durable, reusable, made from recycled materials, and recyclable have been prioritized.
   • Products and services that pose harm to the environment or society has been avoided.
3. Contractual Obligations
   • Sustainability criteria has been incorporated into contracts and agreements with vendors.
   • Vendors have been encouraged to continually enhance their sustainability performance.
4. Staff Development and Awareness
   • Staff involved in procurement have been receive training to ensure they understand and can effectively implement this policy.
   • Awareness of sustainable procurement practices have been promoted among all staff and students.
5. Local and Ethical Sourcing
   • Where possible, prioritize local suppliers to support the local economy and reduce the carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation.
   • Ensure that all procured goods are produced and delivered under conditions that do not involve the abuse or exploitation of any persons.
6. Sustainable IT • • Implement a policy for the ethical disposal of old IT equipment, ensuring that e-waste is properly recycled or disposed of.
   • Procure energy-efficient IT equipment and promote the use of digital solutions to minimize paper use.
     https://tanta.edu.eg/stu/en/stu-servies.aspx
   • Implement a policy for the ethical disposal of old IT equipment, ensuring that e-waste is properly recycled or disposed of.
     
7. Energy and Water Efficiency
   • Prioritize the procurement of energy-efficient appliances and machinery.
   • Procure water-saving devices and technologies to reduce water consumption across the university.
8. Sustainable Food Procurement
   • Prioritize the procurement of sustainably produced, fair trade, and organic food products for university canteens.
     https://tu.tanta.edu.eg/gsc-food/en/page.php?page=a
   • Promote the procurement of plant-based food options to reduce the environmental impact of the university's food consumption.
     https://tu.tanta.edu.eg/gsc-food/en/page.php?page=a
9. Green Building Materials
   • When undertaking construction or renovation projects, prioritize the use of sustainable and eco-friendly building materials.
   • Ensure that contractors and suppliers adhere to green building standards.
10. Monitoring and Review
    • Regularly review procurement practices to ensure they align with this policy.
    • Monitor suppliers' sustainability performance and take this into account in procurement decisions.

Oversight and Monitoring

A Sustainable Procurement Committee has been established by Tanta University to supervise the execution of this policy and assess its efficacy. The committee will conduct regular reviews and updates of the policy to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness.

Closing Statement

Tanta University is dedicated to promoting sustainability in its procurement processes.
By implementing this policy, we aim to contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.