Purchase Sustainably

Purchase Sustainably

Sustainable Purchasing Program

In alignment with BU’s Climate Action Plan and Zero Waste Plan, the Sustainable Purchasing Program (SPP) supports our social and environmental objectives and local markets. The SPP emphasizes reducing overall product purchases, considering used or surplus goods before buying new items, and avoiding single-use products and packaging wherever possible. It also encourages the purchase of remanufactured or durable goods and promotes leasing or sharing equipment when it can replace individual ownership.

Choose Suppliers Wisely

Sustainable goods and services are defined as those that deliver value in terms of both quality and cost, as well as benefits to the environment and society. As part of this commitment, evaluate potential suppliers based on their alignment with key principles, including environmental stewardship, fair labor practices, supplier diversity, and efforts to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals. By partnering with suppliers who uphold these values, we can minimize the adverse impacts of our purchasing decisions and support a more sustainable, ethical supply chain.

Join the BU Reuse Community for Faculty and Staff

Ever wondered what happens to office furniture when departments move or renovations take place? Instead of tossing them, BU has a system to give those items a new home.

The BU Reuse Community helps campus departments repurpose furniture and office materials, so fewer items end up in the waste stream and fewer new ones need to be bought. This community is exclusively for BU departments and office-focused materials you would find on campus and not designed for personal use.

BU staff and faculty can either request for gently used items or, for those looking to reduce their materials, post items you want to give away. Join the group here.

Purchase like a Pro

Deciding which item to add to your cart? Go for… 

  • Post-consumer Recycled Content
  • Consideration of toxins
  • Durability and lifespan of goods 
  • End of life recyclability 
  • Reusability of goods
  • Minimal packaging 
  • Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) criteria designated as “Gold” (electronics & IT equipment)
  • Energy STAR Certified (electronics & appliances)

To find a full list of categories and the related guidelines for sustainable purchasing, visit the Sourcing and Procurement page on the Sustainable Purchasing Program.

Zero Waste + Secondhand Stores

Deciding where to shop? Here’s a list of certified Zero Waste stores we recommend purchasing from.

Zero Waste Stores

Secondhand Stores

Also, check out places where you can share supplies and free furniture. We have BU programming and other schools, such as Harvard Energy & Facilities has a Recycling and Surplus Center and MIT also has a Furniture Exchange.

Want to be recognized for sustainable practices in your office? Interested in guidance for cultivating a sustainable departmental culture? Check out our Green Office Certification Program.

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