Extension of Sustainability Policies to Outsourced Services and Supply Chain
An-Najah National University (ANNU) ensures that all sustainability-related policies, Ethical Sourcing of Food and Supplies Policy, Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Policy, Waste Measurement and Recycling Management Policy , Plastic Use Reduction and Sustainable Materials Policy , and Minimization of disposable items use policy , fully extend to outsourced services, contractors, and the broader supply chain. This institutional commitment guarantees that the university’s environmental and social standards are consistently upheld across all operational levels and external partnerships.
1. Scope of Application
All service providers, suppliers, and contractors operating within ANNU’s premises or providing goods and services to the university must comply with the same sustainability, health, safety, and ethical labor standards that apply to internal university operations.
This includes outsourced entities involved in:
-
Waste collection and recycling operations
-
Catering and food supply services
-
Construction and maintenance contracts
-
Cleaning, landscaping, and campus transport services
-
ICT, printing, and office supply vendors
2. Sustainable Procurement and Contractual Clauses
ANNU’s procurement system incorporates sustainability and ethical sourcing clauses within all supplier and contractor agreements. Bidders are evaluated not only on price and quality but also on:
-
Demonstrated environmental responsibility (e.g., waste minimization, non-plastic packaging, and energy efficiency)
-
Fair labor practices, living wage compliance, and non-discrimination
-
Commitment to reducing carbon footprint and supporting local, sustainable supply chains
These clauses are reviewed periodically to ensure continuous improvement and compliance with evolving sustainability standards.
3. Monitoring and Compliance
The Procurement Department and Sustainability Office jointly monitor adherence to sustainability obligations through:
-
Regular audits of contractors and suppliers
-
Environmental performance indicators in contracts
-
Reporting mechanisms for non-compliance, with corrective action plans and possible contract termination for violations
4. Supporting Local and Ethical Supply Chains
The University prioritizes collaboration with local producers and small enterprises that adopt sustainable and ethical practices. This approach promotes community development and reduces the carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation.
5. Continuous Improvement
ANNU regularly reviews supplier engagement practices to align with UN Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and international standards such as the ISO 20400: Sustainable Procurement Guidelines. Training sessions are periodically conducted for procurement staff and service providers to enhance understanding and implementation of these sustainability expectations.
6. Related Policies