Extension of Disposable Item Minimisation Policies to Suppliers and Supply Chain

Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) ensures that its policies for the minimisation of disposable items are also extended to suppliers and the supply chain, strengthening its commitment to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. This approach guarantees that the university’s sustainability principles are applied not only within internal operations but also across all procurement and supply-related activities.

In line with the Circular Letter of the Vice Rector No. 29/UN27/SE/2020 concerning the Prohibition of Using Single-Use Plastic Drinking Water Packaging and/or Plastic Bags and the Rector’s Instruction No. 28 of 2023 on the reduction of paper and plastic usage at UNS Campus, UNS requires its suppliers of equipment, stationery, and building materials to follow environmentally friendly practices and reduce the use of disposable plastic, paper, and other single-use materials. These requirements are integrated into procurement procedures and supplier selection criteria, ensuring that all partners contribute to waste reduction efforts.

Suppliers are encouraged to use recyclable or reusable packaging, provide eco-friendly alternatives, and adopt digital documentation systems to limit paper consumption. For building and maintenance contracts, UNS promotes the use of sustainable materials and efficient resource management to reduce environmental impact throughout the supply chain.

By extending the minimisation policies to suppliers, UNS builds a more sustainable procurement ecosystem that supports long-term environmental goals. This initiative helps foster collaboration between the university and its partners in creating a responsible, efficient, and environmentally conscious supply chain, ensuring that sustainability is embedded in every stage of goods and service provision.