Purchasing and catering

The University's purchasing decisions have major socio-economic and environmental implications, both locally and globally. To minimise the their impact, and ensure a long-term approach is applied to all purchasing decisions, sustainability needs to be integrated into the all of our procurement processes. 

Sustainable procurement is one of the main engines through which we can achieve sustainable development by meeting the need for goods, services, works and utilities in a way that achieves value for money on the 'whole life' basis of the product. This not only generates benefits for us but also for society and the economy while minimising damage to the environment.

A young woman wearing glasses, smiling as she picks a jar of peanut butter out from a row of jars.

Procurement

The University works hard to embed responsible procurement principles across all of its activities. We aim to manage our procurement activities in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner.
A man speaking in front of an audience, in front of a presentation about sustainability.

Divestment

Our Ethical Investment Policy commits the University to invest its funds on a socially responsible basis with due regard to environmental, social and governance issues.
Responsible supply chains A man smiling and driving a truck.

Responsible supply chains

We ensure our suppliers follow responsible practices in relation to workers, environment and society. Learn more about our responsible supply chain actions.

An image of sliced sausage-style rolls with toothpicks in them.

Catering

We are committed to using our considerable influence and buying power to encourage healthy and sustainable food production and consumption.

Fairtrade

Purchasing and catering supporting SDG 12

Managing our procurement activities in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner. Discover how the University is contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible production and consumption.