Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing Policy for Food and Supplies

Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing Policy for Food and Supplies

University of Mosul

1. Title

University of Mosul Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing Policy for Food and Supplies

2. Purpose / Objective

This policy aims to ensure that all food purchases and essential supplies at the University of Mosul adhere to ethical and sustainable standards that respect human rights, protect the environment, and support the local economy. The primary objective is to reduce the University’s environmental footprint, promote social justice, and ensure that procurement decisions reflect the human values upheld by the University as a leading academic institution.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all University procurement activities, including food and supplies provided in cafeterias, laboratories, colleges, and administrative departments. It also extends to contracts with both local and international suppliers.

4. Principles / Commitments

  • Environmental Sustainability: prioritizing eco-friendly products, such as biodegradable materials or organic goods.

  • Social Justice: working only with suppliers who respect workers’ rights and provide safe and fair working conditions.

  • Supporting the Local Economy: fostering collaboration with local suppliers and farmers to promote sustainable economic development in Nineveh Province and Iraq.

  • Ethical Responsibility: avoiding partnerships with entities involved in exploitative labor practices or harmful environmental activities, such as deforestation or child labor.

5. Procedures / Implementation Mechanisms

  • Supplier Selection: applying strict criteria to verify suppliers’ commitment to ethical and sustainable practices, including certifications such as Fair Trade or Organic.

  • Periodic Review: conducting continuous assessments of suppliers to ensure ongoing compliance with required standards.

  • Waste Management: implementing practical plans to minimize non-biodegradable materials, promote recycling, and reduce food waste through donation programs for surplus food.

  • Promoting Sustainable Alternatives: encouraging the use of plant-based or plastic-free products across university facilities.

6. Responsibilities

  • The University Presidency holds ultimate responsibility for adopting and ensuring the enforcement of this policy.

  • The Procurement Office is responsible for reviewing contracts and verifying suppliers’ compliance with ethical standards.

  • The Office of Sustainability monitors suppliers’ environmental and social performance and submits periodic reports to senior management.

  • Cafeteria staff and administrative units are responsible for prioritizing sustainable products in purchasing and consumption practices.

7. Monitoring and Evaluation

  • Preparing periodic reports to assess suppliers’ compliance with ethical and sustainability standards.

  • Conducting annual audits of procurement practices and benchmarking them against defined goals.

  • Engaging students and staff in evaluating procurement policies through regular surveys.

8. Periodic Review

This policy will be reviewed every two years, or as needed, to ensure alignment with developments in food and supply markets and with the latest global best practices in sustainability and ethical sourcing.

9. Link to Global Goals

This policy contributes to:

  • Goal 2: Zero Hunger, by promoting sustainable food systems.

  • Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by protecting workers’ rights and supporting the local economy.

  • Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, by sourcing sustainably and managing waste responsibly.

  • Goal 13: Climate Action, by reducing the University’s environmental footprint.

  • Goal 15: Life on Land, by avoiding products linked to deforestation or ecosystem degradation.

Approved by: Presidency of the University of Mosul.

Last updated: 24-12-2024.