Responsible procurement

We are working towards socially responsible and sustainable sourcing.

Responsible procurement is the act of sourcing goods and services in a way that takes into account ethical and sustainable considerations, including economic, social and environmental factors, whilst aiming to procure and act in a way that is open, fair and transparent.  

At the University of Edinburgh we consider: the environmental impact of goods, services or works being delivered; opportunities to promote human rights within the supply chain; and the potential to enhance local social value through delivery of community benefits.

The Procurement Department

Why is how we source important?

Where a product's raw materials come from, how it is assembled, and how it arrives at the University form part of a complex chain. 

Some are very short and local; some are complex global chains. It is often difficult to trace these chains to ensure each supplier follows acceptable standards for workers, the environment and society. 

Most of the University's carbon emissions are calculated as coming from our supply chains, rather than more direct sources like energy consumption.

The most sustainable thing we can do is not purchase and instead reuse.

We want everyone involved in making products and delivering services treated fairly. This means being vigilant on modern slavery; paying special attention to areas such as conflict minerals found in electronics, and palm oil; and championing fair trade, which seeks to empower workers.

Community benefits are one way the University can deliver positive change with local communities. These are goodwill contributions from developers to benefit people in our city. Examples could include offering apprenticeships and working with local charities.

What is the University doing?

Changing buying behaviour

Promoting the principles of circular economy to our buyers to:

  • eliminate pollution and waste
  • circulate products and materials at their highest value, for as long as possible, in order to reduce consumption
  • support restorative and regenerative processes, in order to improve the natural environment. 

Embedding relevant processes into University procurement

We do this by:

  • focusing on high impact contracts
  • developing resources and tools to support colleagues throughout the procurement journey.

Influencing our supply chain

Ensuring our suppliers are in a position to: 

  • achieve our climate targets
  • enhance worker and human rights throughout their organisation and supply chains 
  • understand and deliver additional benefits to our local community.

What can I do?

Consider the options

Do not buy unless you need to. Check if your school / department already has the item, contact the Furniture Office, or use the Sustainability Champions Teams channel to reallocate and share resources in the University.

When you need to buy

If you’re looking to requisition goods, services or works on behalf of the University, visit the Procurement hub.

Procurement hub: responsible procurement [SharePoint site]

Information for suppliers

If you’re an existing (or prospective) supplier to the University, visit the procurement website.

Procurement website

 

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