Sustainable Procurement
NYU Abu Dhabi is committed to integrating sustainability into all purchasing decisions. In alignment with NYU’s Green Workplace Certification, our procurement practices prioritize reducing waste, supporting ethical supply chains, and selecting long-lasting, environmentally responsible products.
As part of this commitment, NYUAD is transitioning away from per-office logo branding to a unified university identity, minimizing materials usage and reducing environmental impact.
How NYUAD Embeds Sustainability Into Purchasing Decisions
Before purchasing, consider the necessity of the item:
- Can it be borrowed, rented, or shared instead of bought?
- Can pre-existing items be recycled or repurposed for your intended need?
If buying is required, departments are encouraged to prioritize sustainability through the following principles:
- Utility and purpose: Choose items that are functional and serve a clear purpose, such as water bottles, mugs, and tote bags.
- Durability: Select items that have a usage span of at least 3 years without needing replacement. Take into account energy, maintenance, and disposal costs when considering durability.
- Sustainable materials: Opt for items made from sustainable materials such as cloth, bamboo, stainless steel, glass, and cork.
- Ethical and local purchasing: When possible, source locally. Otherwise, purchase items from pre-approved certified B Corporations whenever possible, which adhere to international standards for sustainable and ethical products.
- Eco-friendly apparel: Ensure apparel is made from organic and/or recycled-content materials.
- Order less frequently or in bulk: This is especially true for office supplies.