Procurement and Contract Services provides a variety of paper products available for purchase, many of which have recycled content. The following certifications and standards can help guide sustainable procurement options:
Certifications and Standards
| Certification | Description | Logo |
|---|---|---|
| Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) |
FSC ensures a chain of custody on certified products that source paper from either recycled or responsibly managed forests. FSC is an independent, non-profit organization that protects forests for future generations. |
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| Green Seal | Green Seal is an independent non-profit organization “dedicated to safeguarding the environment and transforming the marketplace by promoting the manufacture, purchase, and use of environmentally responsible products and services”. |  |
| Rainforest Alliance Certified |
A Rainforest Alliance Certified farm is one that complies with 10 standards set in place by the Sustainable Agriculture Network (SAN). These standards include ecosystem conservation, wildlife protection, and fair treatment and good working conditions for workers. |
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| Sustainable Forestry Initiative | SFI is a solutions-oriented sustainability organization that collaborates on forest-based conservation and community initiatives that demonstrate and enhance our shared quality of life. |  |
Things to Consider:
Buy credibly certified products
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Make sure to request options that are third party certified such as FSC, Green Seal, Rainforest Alliance Certified, or SFI Certified.
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TIP: The W-Store sells FSC-Certified Paper as its standard, making it easy and convenient to find on campus!
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Buy circular
- Does the product contain recycled components or materials? This is typically explicitly stated.
- Have efforts been made to limit excess packaging and resulting waste?
- Can the product and/or packaging be disposed of through existing UW waste programs? Refer to the A-Z Sorting Guide if unsure.
- Does the product integrate post-consumer-recycled paper? A box of paper with 30% recycled content is cheaper than purchasing virgin paper! Visit the Procurement & Contract Services site for pricing and information.
Minimize Unnecessary Purchases
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Discuss with the office/department if there truly is a need to print and explore paperless options. There is a growing number of offices on campus that are opting for a paperless route on campus
