Stevens Institute of Technology
OP-14: Office Paper Purchasing

Office Paper Products Purchasing The Forest Stewardship Council promotes responsible management for the world’s forest, and subsequently advocates for the purchasing of paper products that are environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable. The FSC asserts that the current needs for paper products can be met through sustainable forestry without compromising the health of the world’s forests. Recycling is an effective way to conserve resources, minimize waste and protect the environment. Stevens, as an institution, will demonstrate a purchasing preference for office and paper products that have recycled content, and are therefore certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This preference will signify Stevens commitment to sustainable practices that are beneficial to the institution and the health of the forests that are relied on for daily business practices. In addition to purchasing FSC certified recycled paper, Stevens will commit to limit the use of paper and consumables by printing two-sided whenever possible, using “draft” mode to use less ink and toner, print “multiple pages per page” where feasible, and store electronic copies instead of paper copies. By purchasing recycled paper, either 30% post-consumer recycled or 100% post-consumer waste recycled content paper, the university will be able to see significant cost savings and show the Stevens commitment to environmental sustainability. Stevens has committed to sustainability and has an institution-wide stated preference to purchase office paper that has recycled content, and to be certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Additionally, any office printer paper that is purchased through the Purchasing Department will be exclusively office paper that contains 90-100 percent of post-consumer FSC certified office printer paper. This stated preference is not mandatory, however the second part of this policy will impact anyone that utilizes purchasing for the office printer supplies. Virgin Fiber vs. Recycled Copy Paper 1 ton Virgin Fiber paper 1 ton 100% Recycled paper Environmental Savings form Recycled Content Trees 24 trees 0 trees 100% Energy 33 million BTUs 22 million BTUs 33% Greenhouse Gases Released – CO2 equivalent 5,601 pounds 3,533 pounds 37% Wastewater 22,853 gallons 11,635 gallons 49% Solid waste 1,922 pounds 1,171 pounds 39% Any future contracts with office supply companies will include language that will require FSC certified recycled office paper to be listed as an item and will, unless stated otherwise, only sell said paper. New Stevens faculty, staff, and students will be informed of the benefits of FSC certified recycled office paper and how to limit the wasted use of paper during new student and employee orientation. Below is a table depicting the environmental benefits of recycled paper over virgin fiber paper.

Preferred purchasing guidelines are posted on the Procurement webpage to be made available to those purchasing new items.