Responsible purchasing is a key component of AU's sustainability program. We buy a number of greener products and have adopted a formal sustainable purchasing policy to further advance these practices.

What AU Is Doing to Buy Green

• In 2010, AU adopted a Sustainable Purchasing Policy. Click on the Related Link at right to download the policy.
• AU buys EPEAT certified laptop and desktop computers. For more information, click the link on the side.
• We purchase Green Seal Certified cleaning chemicals where they are available.
• We purchase ENERGY STAR-rated electronic equipment, such as office printers.
• Inline water filters are available to replace bottled water.
  
• A portion of the food sold on campus is local and/or sustainably produced. According to a survey completed by Bon Appetit in fall 2010, 36% of food purchased by the university was grown and processed within 250 miles of campus and/or certified as a sustainable food by a third-party certification organization (USDA Certified Organic, Marine Stewardship Council Blue Ecolabel, Food Alliance, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, Protected Harvest).
• Fair trade coffee is available in select locations on campus.
• AU is a member of the Responsible Purchasing Network.
• AU supports small, local, and disadvantaged businesses with contracting goals and requirements. See “CBE Purchasing Policy” in related links.