Introduction
Constructor University (CU) recognizes the critical role of sustainable procurement in contributing to the institution's commitment to environmental responsibility, social justice, and economic prosperity. This Sustainable Procurement Policy outlines our commitment to integrating sustainability principles into all aspects of our procurement and construction processes. This policy serves as a guide for all Constructor University departments, employees, and suppliers to ensure that our construction and procurement practices are consistent with our sustainability goals.
Intention
This is the aim of this policy:
- Promote environmentally friendly and ethical procurement and construction practices that minimize negative environmental and social impacts.
- Support local suppliers and contractors to promote economic growth and social equity in our community and beyond.
- Improving CU's sustainability by procuring products and services and building infrastructure that meet our high environmental and ethical standards.
Scope
This policy applies to all procurement and construction activities conducted by or on behalf of Constructor University. It covers the acquisition of goods, services and construction projects, regardless of the funding source, value or procurement method.
Principles of sustainable procurement
Responsibility for the environment
- Favoring sustainable products: Constructor University prefers products and services that have minimal negative impact on the environment, promote resource efficiency and have recognized environmental certifications, such as EU Energy Star, Blue Angel or Fair Trade.
- Energy and water efficiency: When procuring equipment and devices, preference should be given to those that meet or exceed recognized energy and water efficiency standards. The university is continuously working to improve its energy efficiency by among other things converting its lighting to LED and its windows to multiple glazing. The Constructor University operates two CHP plants to supply energy. These produce the heat and electricity required on campus more efficiently than acquiring each by itself, most of this energy is used for the university's own consumption. The University is certified and regularly audited for its energy-management to DIN EN ISO 50001.
- Waste avoidance: Efforts are made to reduce the volume of waste by procuring products with minimal packaging and encouraging suppliers to use sustainable packaging methods.
Social justice
- Fair Labor Practices: Constructor University is committed to supporting suppliers and contractors who adhere to fair labor practices, including safe working conditions, fair wages and respect for workers' rights.
- Diversity and Inclusion: We actively seek to work with diverse suppliers and contractors, including minority-owned, women-owned and small businesses, to promote economic diversity and inclusion within our supply chain. Constructor University supports and encourages people with disabilities, for example by offering them jobs in property maintenance.
- Ethical procurement: Suppliers and contractors must adhere to ethical procurement practices and ensure that no child labor, forced labor or unethical practices are used in their supply chain.
Economic prosperity
- Local procurement: Constructor University favors local suppliers, products and contractors in order to promote the local economy, reduce transport emissions and strengthen partnerships within the community. Constructor University favors local suppliers from Bremen and Bremen North in particular and seeks to strengthen these partnerships through framework agreements and declarations of cooperation.
- Cost efficiency: Sustainable procurement should not compromise cost efficiency. We will look for sustainable options that offer good value for money.
Reporting, review and improvement
Constructor University will report regularly on its performance in the area of sustainable procurement and the building.
This sustainable procurement policy is reviewed regularly and, if necessary, changes are made to improve CU's impact on nature and society.