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Sustainable Office Supplies

Last Updated: July 29, 2025 9:52:21 AM PDT
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Learn how to purchase Sustainable Office Supplies

Why It Matters

When procuring consumable office products, consider the following sustainability factors to make informed decisions. Help contribute to a circular economy and reducing UC San Diego's environmental footprint.

Key Requirements (UC Sustainable Procurement Guidelines)

As per UC Sustainable Procurement Guidelines, sustainability criteria have been set for copy paper, paper office supplies, non-paper office supplies, and toner. 

Product Type Minimum Sustainability Standard
  • Copy Paper
 ≥ 30% Post-Consumer Recycled Content (PCRC), agricultural residue, or Green Seal GS-07 certified
  • Paper Office Supplies
 ≥ 30% PCRC (e.g., notepads, folders, envelopes)
  • Non-Paper Office Supplies
 Must meet EPA’s recycled content guidelines; writing utensils & plastic accessories: ≥ 30% recycled
  • Toner Cartridges
 Consider remanufactured or high-yield options

Sustainable Consumable Office Products 

UC San Diego is committed to significantly reducing our environmental impact by making informed procurement decisions for consumable office products. Please consider the following criteria when procuring sustainable office supplies:

Choose Recycled and Recyclable Products

  • Buy 100% recycled or tree-free paper (e.g., bamboo or agricultural residue).

  • Use remanufactured toner, refillable pens, and recycled binders.

  • Pick eco-friendly folders, organizers, and accessories made from post-consumer materials.

Prioritize Reusable and Bulk Items

  • Use refillable markers, pens, and highlighters.

  • Buy in bulk (reams of paper, sticky notes) to cut packaging waste.

  • Promote reusable water bottles and mugs in place of disposables.

Avoid Harmful Chemicals

  • Avoid products with BPA, PVC, phthalates, and antimicrobial agents.

  • Choose low-toxicity cleaners and hand soaps.

  • Skip products treated with chemical flame retardants or stain repellents.

Support Sustainable Vendors

  • Buy from vendors with sustainability certifications.

  • Look for third-party eco-labels like Green Seal, FSC, EPA CPG, etc.

 

Need Help?

View the full UC Sustainable Procurement Guidelines, or contact your department's sustainability liaison.