Purchasing at UF
As individual entities and as an aggregate industry, universities purchase large volumes of products such as paper, computers, printers, copiers, office supplies, research supplies, cleaning supplies, building materials, furniture, paint, carpet, food and more. As an institution with large purchasing requirements, the University of Florida can influence and drive the type, availability and price of products offered in the marketplace. We can leverage purchasing practices to educate our students, improve human health conditions on campus, and lead the way as stewards of the Earth’s resources by making environmentally and socially preferable purchasing choices.
Purchasing and Disbursement Services has done much in the past few years to ensure that the vendors contracted by the university are aligned with UF's sustainability goals. In 2003, department leaders drafted purchasing guidelines designed to lessen UF's environmental impact by directing purchasers to environmentally preferable products whenever they perform satisfactorily and are available at a reasonable price. These guidelines were enhanced and revised in 2007 as the Sustainable Purchasing Directive.
In order to leverage the incredible purchasing power of UF to drive sustainable choices, it is important that all UF members remember to take advantage of the Purchasing Department’s services whenever possible. If you do decide to make a purchase on your own, remember to reference the Sustainable Purchasing Directive and to consider the tips listed on the Sustainable Purchasing page.
