Sustainable procurement

Radboud University wishes to make sustainability a higher priority in its procurement.

For large orders, the Purchasing Department is automatically involved. For more small-scale orders, faculties make clear internal agreements on sustainable procurement.

The objectives from the agreement on sustainable procurement
(Convenant duurzaam inkopen) are being met, meaning that social and environmental aspects are a crucial element in all phases of the procurement process.

By 2020, Radboud University will include sustainability criteria, social aspects and fair trade requirements in the purchase of all products, services and projects.
For example, we are contributing to the increased labour participation of people with a distance to the labour market. Another key principle is to organise circular chains with producers, suppliers, users and waste processing facilities. In order to assess financial feasibility, we strive to achieve good insight into the total cost of ownership. The university will evaluate suppliers more on their sustainability performance and the impact of their products in the circular economy, both during procurement and throughout the lifespan (audits). The aim is to sell as many of the written-off goods as possible through the campus thrift shop or other channels (ICT). In contacting our suppliers, we strive for a connection on multiple levels, for instance by sharing knowledge through guest lectures or internships. Radboud University, together with Radboud University Medical Center, will make better agreements with suppliers regarding the bundling of deliveries or goods, reducing the amount of logistics involved (Facilities & Services (F&S), Purchasing Department).

Take a look at the Sustainability Agenda 2016 - 2020.