Purchasing
In every step of a product's life, from harvesting of raw materials to transport to disposal, there are impacts on the environment and society. Before beginning the purchasing process, consider these following questions:
- First and foremost: Is the purchase of this product necessary??
- From what is the product made? How are these materials harvested?
- Where is the product made? Who makes it? In what conditions is it manufactured?
- How long will this product last?
- How far does it travel to reach the consumer?
- How much energy or materials does it use during its operable life?
- How is it disposed of?
Purchasing Guides
OSU Procurement and Contract Services (PaCS)
As the purchasing agency for OSU, PaCS has the authority to negotiate leases, supply contracts and procure services. By having a single entity perform these tasks, purchasing is simplified and the quality of product and services received is increased.
The PaCS Essentials is a detailed yet concise reference guide to the purchasing and contracting process.
The PaCS Manual contains all the information you'll need to navigate the procurement process. Sustainability in general procurement and in construction contracts are mentioned specifically.
City of Portland Sustainable Procurement Guide
This guide illustrates the City of Roses' purchasing policy and its emphasis on sustainability.
Buying Green Handbook
Published by the European Commission, this handbook attempts to guide consumers so that the power of purchase is used for environmental and social good.
When purchasing new computer equipment or appliances, consider EPEAT™ and ENERGY STAR-certified products. These products are verified to be more energy-efficient that their peers. In the case of EPEAT™, other environmental criteria like heavy metals, predicted lifetime of product, disposal and packaging are also examined.
Buy Green
This user-friendly guide helps to get the consumer started on making smart consumption choices.