We embrace the University's commitment to a robust sustainability vision, and strive to make it manifest in the ways that we do business.
The Berkeley Campus Sustainability Website is a good place to start when thinking about making a difference through the minimizing of ecological footprints. Guidelines for copy paper usage are particularly relevant to our administrative office environs.
Vice Chancellor Nathan Bostrom recently notes that "UC Berkeley is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by the year 2014. To help the campus reach this goal, staff members participating in the Leadership Development Program this year are researching energy-efficient computing initiatives for our campus. Greener computing could significantly reduce our electricity use and cost, and our carbon footprint." In support of this goal, Nathan recently sent the campus a related survey - have you taken it yet? Procurement Services will undoubtedly play a role in green-targeted computer acquisition which will be expanding as this initiative goes forward.
The Strategic Sourcing Program, a part of Procurement Services, is guided by
UC's Systemwide Sustainability vision when negotiating contracts with suppliers hoping to provide value to the whole UC system. Sustainability factors are identified for commodity areas and required to be part of suppliers' bid proposals, then weighed as quality enhancements contributing to the basis for award of a contract to a winning supplier.
The Cal Overstock and Surplus Den is a certified Green Business, committed to recycling efforts that prove there is also revenue in green practices (view our Sustainability message for 07/08).
Fleet Services is working closely with campus departments to transition to greener vehicles.
Our efforts in the Sustainability theater will only increase and expand as we go forward. Watch for more news as new possibilities and practices are identified, and new programs and activities continue to promote the greening of the campus and community.