Greening our purchases is one the most powerful ways that as a campus we can reduce our impact. Money is power in today’s world, so being wary of where money flows is all the more important. Called “voting with your dollar”, basing purchases on the environmental impact of product is a way of consciously endorsing the world you want to live in. Every time money is spent on particular items, you are in a sense supporting the ethics and practices of the company you are buying the product from. As a campus, we have in incredible amount of influence on our world. Who and on what we spend money impacts the world around us.
One way ethical purchasing decisions are made easier is through certifications. Bellevue College’s Facilities Operations has a preference for Green-Seal certified products. 86% of dollars spent in eligible categories have been on Green Seal products.
Established in 1989, Green-Seal Certification can cover products and services such as paints and cleaners, to businesses and hotels. There are environmental standards that must be met in order to qualify. According to their website:
“Green Seal is a pioneer in promoting a sustainable economy. In 1989 there were no other environmental certification programs in the US and our founders had the foresight to recognize the need for a tool to help shoppers find truly green products. They developed the Green Seal as a non-profit to stand for absolute integrity. Over the years the reputation of the Seal brand has grown to symbolize environmental leadership, and it continues to represent unquestionably green products and services.”
The commitment that our Facilities Operations has taken to purchase Green seal products is huge step towards our vision of a sustainable campus culture. This not only impacts the way we move and live on campus, but the very functioning of our campus.
Last Updated November 19, 2013