Minimisation policies: extension to outsourced services and suppliers

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has instituted comprehensive waste minimisation policies that extend to outsourced services, suppliers, and the broader supply chain. This commitment is articulated through several key policies, including the UJ Waste Management Policy and the UJ Procurement Policy, which collectively ensure that all stakeholders align with the university’s sustainability objectives.

UJ Waste Management Policy

Established in 2009 and reviewed in 2022, the UJ Waste Management Policy encompasses all facets of the university’s operations, explicitly including contractors and external service providers. The policy mandates that all waste generators, both internal and external, adhere to its guidelines, ensuring a unified approach to waste minimisation. A pivotal aspect of this policy is the emphasis on waste minimisation, as outlined in section 8.7:

“Processes need to be streamlined in order to minimise the generation of waste. Where waste is unavoidable, UJ will commit itself to recovering resources by liaising with external service providers to ensure that waste can be reused or recycled.”

This directive underscores the university’s dedication to collaborating with suppliers and contractors to reduce waste generation and promote the reuse or recycling of materials.

UJ Procurement Policy

The UJ Procurement Policy, approved by the Council in November 2021, integrates environmental conscientious principles into the procurement process. Section 5.3 of the policy emphasizes the consideration of environmental factors alongside economic and ethical principles. Specific measures include:

• Sustainable Materials: Prioritising the procurement of products containing materials produced sustainably or comprising reconditioned or recycled components.
• Product Stewardship: Engaging with suppliers who demonstrate product stewardship by recollecting products at the end of their lifecycle, ensuring responsible disposal and recycling.
• Energy Efficiency and Pollution Reduction: Preferring goods that are energy-efficient and have a lower pollution profile, thereby reducing the environmental impact of the university’s operations.
• Supplier Environmental Management: Favouring suppliers who actively minimise their energy usage and adverse environmental effects, especially those accredited with a certified environmental management system. 

By embedding these criteria into the procurement process, UJ ensures that its waste minimisation policies are effectively extended to all suppliers and contractors, fostering a culture of sustainability throughout the supply chain.

Practical Implementation and Examples

UJ’s commitment to waste minimisation in collaboration with its suppliers and service providers is demonstrated through various initiatives:

• Sustainable Procurement Practices: The university actively seeks to partner with suppliers who offer environmentally friendly products, such as energy-efficient equipment and items made from recycled materials. This practice not only reduces waste but also encourages the market to adopt more sustainable production methods.
• Supplier Engagement and Development: UJ conducts regular workshops and training sessions for suppliers and contractors, educating them on the university’s sustainability goals and waste minimisation strategies. This collaborative approach ensures that all parties are aligned and contribute effectively to reducing waste.
• Contractual Obligations: Environmental considerations are embedded into contractual agreements with suppliers and service providers. These contracts stipulate adherence to UJ’s waste management policies, ensuring compliance and fostering accountability.

Through these comprehensive policies and proactive measures, the University of Johannesburg ensures that its commitment to waste minimisation permeates all levels of its operations, including those conducted by outsourced services and suppliers. This holistic approach not only mitigates environmental impact but also sets a benchmark for sustainable practices within the higher education sector.

Refer to page 3 (point 4) of the UJ Waste Management Policy on scope of this policy which applies and extends to all contractors and all generators of waste:

4.   Scope:

“UJ Management
All generators of waste
Contractors.”

This policy applies and extends to all contractors, all generators of waste, as well as all external service providers, as outlined in and mentioned throughout this policy document.