Extension of Sustainability Policies to Outsourced Suppliers and Supply Chain
An-Najah National University (ANNU) ensures that its sustainability, 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 , comprehensively extend to all outsourced suppliers and contractors, including those providing equipment, stationery, building materials, and construction services. This approach integrates environmental responsibility, ethical sourcing, and social accountability into every stage of the university’s supply chain.
1. Sustainable Procurement Framework
Through the Purchasing Policy, ANNU requires that all suppliers and service providers adhere to the university’s environmental and social standards. Tender documents and contractual agreements explicitly include sustainability criteria such as:
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Eco-friendly products and packaging: Preference for recyclable, biodegradable, or sustainably sourced materials.
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Energy-efficient and low-carbon equipment: All ICT, laboratory, and maintenance equipment must meet international efficiency standards.
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Sustainable stationery and office supplies: Recycled paper, refillable ink cartridges, and minimal single-use plastics.
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Green building materials: Use of energy-efficient, non-toxic, and locally sourced materials in construction projects.
2. Extension to Building and Construction Contracts
All construction and maintenance tenders are governed by ANNU’s Sustainable Waste Management Policy, ensuring that contractors:
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Apply waste-reduction, segregation, and recycling practices on-site.
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Follow safe disposal procedures for hazardous or chemical materials.
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Use environmentally responsible building designs aligned with ANNU’s Green Campus and Net-Zero Commitment.
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Comply with national environmental regulations and international sustainability standards such as ISO 14001 (Environmental Management).
3. Supplier Evaluation and Monitoring
Suppliers are evaluated and periodically reviewed based on:
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Demonstrated compliance with environmental and ethical standards.
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Evidence of fair labor conditions.
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Reduction of plastic use and carbon emissions in their operations.
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Delivery of sustainability performance documentation during contract renewal.
The Procurement Department and Sustainability Office collaborate to audit supplier performance, ensuring alignment with the University’s sustainability targets.
4. Local and Ethical Supply Chain Commitment
ANNU prioritizes partnerships with local suppliers and contractors that demonstrate environmentally responsible and socially inclusive practices. This reduces the environmental footprint associated with transport, strengthens the local economy, and promotes community resilience.
5. Continuous Improvement
The University continually updates its procurement guidelines to align with international best practices such as ISO 20400: Sustainable Procurement and the UN Sustainable Development Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production. Staff involved in procurement and logistics receive regular training on ethical sourcing, circular economy principles, and supply-chain sustainability.
6. Related Policies