The University of California and the UC Davis Supply Chain Management organization is dedicated to sustainability in each of its forms, including environmental, economic, and social.
The UC Sustainable Procurement Policy guides our purchasing decisions at UC Davis.
Environmental Sustainability
Supply Chain Management utilizes Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP), a strategy that seeks to procure products and services with a reduced or minimal environmental impact, as compared to other similar products/services that serve the same purpose. Our AggieSupply Scientific Store is creating sustainable efficiencies, including centralized receiving & distribution (Last Mile Initiative), and reduced courier trucks on campus.
In addition, we continually look for programs to recycle packaging, including the polystyrene foam, used for many lab items.
What Can You Do? Lab personnel should visit My Green Lab. My Green Lab is a non-profit organization advancing education in environmentally-responsible science. Their website contains a wealth of information on ways to make your lab more "green," and ensure that solid environmental sustainability practices are followed. There is also a green lab certification that is highly recommended.
Economic Sustainability
Fair Wage/Fair Work is one example of how the University of California achieves economic sustainability in the partnerships that are built with outside suppliers. We work to ensure that the suppliers with which we contract are paying sustainable wages to their employees.
Social Sustainability
Mitigating the potential negative social impacts of a business transaction on the community (e.g., increased CO2 and pollution) is also part of the University of California mission to practice sustainable purchasing.
Evaluating Sustainability
UC systemwide suppliers are participating in the EcoVadis supplier assessment process. EcoVadis is a network of suppliers rated according to their Environmental, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics and Sustainable Procurement practices. Suppliers receive a scorecard and action plan that can be used to identify goals and monitor their progress toward more sustainable operations. Learn more on the UC Office of the President Procurement website.