UC's Green Policy
The University of California's Policy on Sustainable Practices focuses on:
- Green building design that seeks to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards for sustainability.
- Clean energy standards to reduce consumption of non-renewable energy.
- Climate protection practices with an overall goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Sustainable transportation practices that implement a most efficient and effective economic and environmental strategy for campus fleets.
- Sustainable operations for facilities management.
- Recycling and waste management with a goal of zero waste by 2020.
- Environmentally preferable purchasing practices emphasizing sustainability, recycled content, Green Seal certified products, reduction of hazardous electronic waste and environmentally responsible packaging.
The University of California uses environmental sustainability as a key criterion in evaluating suppliers.
How You Can Help
Choose Energy Star Products
When making purchases for UCLA, look for Energy Star products. Energy Star is a government-backed program that helps businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency. Products in more than 40 categories are eligible for Energy Star including office equipment, appliances, electronics, and heating and cooling devices. These products use less energy, save money and help protect the environment.
Cut Back on Paper Use
Try to use less paper by minimizing what you print or by printing double-sided when printing longer documents. When ordering paper products such as copier and custodial paper, see Green Seal Recommendations. For example, look for paper that:
- Is unbleached or uses no elemental chlorine or chlorine derivatives in the bleaching process (to avoid production of dioxins and other harmful chemicals).
- Has a low basis weight (such as 20 lb.) to minimize the use of fiber.
- Has a high post-consumer recycled content. A suggested choice is Boise Aspen Recycled papers with 30%, 50% or 100% post-consumer recycled content.
