All Tulane departments are now required to purchase ENERGY STAR labeled appliances, lights, and electronics. ENERGY STAR is a program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy that identifies the most energy efficient models of most electronics and appliances. This policy is just one small step on Tulane’s path to climate neutrality. More details can be found at the ENERGY STAR Purchasing Policy website.
Tulane has a decentralized purchasing system where departments and offices bear responsibility for their own operating supplies. It is up to a large number of individuals to make environmentally responsible purchasing decisions. Tulane encourages purchasers to follow green purchasing guidelines recommended by the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED green building operations and maintenance criteria. For more information about Tulane’s LEED purchasing guidelines, click here.
Green purchasing is not only about saving energy and reducing impacts on natural resources, it is also about building sustainable economies. Fair Trade is a system of exchange that seeks to create greater equity in the international trading system. Tulane is home to IN Exchange, a fair trade art boutique founded by a Tulane student and located in the Lavin-Bernick Center for University Life.
- If you are responsible for ordering supplies and equipment for an office or department, look for products that meet the ENERGY STAR and LEED purchasing guidelines.
- Visit IN Exchange in the Lavin-Bernick Center for University Life.
Links
How to Shop for ENERGY STAR at Tulane University
LEED Green Purchasing Guidelines
Guide to Green Labels
IN Exchange
Read More
“IN Exchange Store Opens for Aware Shoppers” (New Wave, October 3, 2007)