Responsible procurement and partnerships
The University of Hertfordshire recognises that its influence extends beyond its campuses.
Through the goods and services we purchase, the organisations we work with, the investments we make and the way we manage our finances, we have an opportunity to create positive environmental, social and economic outcomes.
Responsible procurement & partnerships form an important part of the University’s sustainability ambitions and support our commitment to operating in an ethical, transparent and sustainable manner.
By considering sustainability within procurement, supplier relationships, financial management and partnership activities, we seek to deliver long-term value for students, staff, communities and the environment.
Responsible Procurement
The University incorporates sustainability considerations into its procurement activities to support responsible purchasing and long-term value.
We recognise that procurement decisions can influence:
- carbon emissions;
- resource consumption;
- waste generation;
- biodiversity;
- labour standards;
- community outcomes;
- social value.
By considering sustainability throughout procurement processes, we aim to reduce environmental impacts whilst supporting responsible and ethical supply chains.
Our Sustainable Purchasing Policy provides guidance on how environmental and social considerations are incorporated into purchasing decisions and contract management activities.
Procurement activities seek to balance value for money with environmental responsibility, social impact and long-term sustainability outcomes.
Responsible Supply Chains
The University seeks to work with suppliers and contractors who share our commitment to responsible business practices and sustainable development.
Where appropriate, procurement and contract management activities consider:
- environmental performance;
- carbon reduction;
- resource efficiency;
- waste minimisation;
- ethical labour practices;
- social value;
- responsible sourcing.
By engaging with suppliers on sustainability issues, we seek to encourage continual improvement and support positive outcomes throughout our supply chains.
The University recognises that achieving sustainability objectives requires collaboration throughout the supply chain.
We work with suppliers and contractors to encourage continual improvement in environmental performance, ethical standards and social value delivery.
Modern Slavery & Human Rights
The University is committed to promoting ethical business practices and respecting human rights throughout its operations and supply chains.
We recognise the importance of identifying and addressing risks associated with modern slavery, forced labour and exploitation.
The University expects suppliers and partners to comply with relevant legislation and to uphold appropriate standards relating to labour practices, human rights and ethical conduct.
Future development of our responsible business framework will continue to strengthen our approach to supply chain transparency and ethical procurement.
Southern Universities Purchasing Consortium (SUPC)
The University is a member of the Southern Universities Purchasing Consortium (SUPC).
SUPC supports the higher education sector through collaborative procurement frameworks that incorporate sustainability considerations and responsible procurement principles.
Membership provides access to procurement arrangements that help organisations:
- improve value for money;
- reduce duplication;
- promote responsible sourcing;
- support sustainability objectives;
- improve supply chain management.
Working through recognised procurement frameworks helps ensure sustainability considerations are embedded within many purchasing activities across the University.
Electronics Watch
Through SUPC’s affiliation with Electronics Watch, the University supports efforts to improve transparency and labour conditions within global electronics supply chains.
Electronics Watch is an independent monitoring organisation that works with public sector buyers to promote respect for labour rights in the production of electronic goods.
This supports the University’s wider commitment to responsible procurement and ethical supply chain management.
Responsible Finance
The University recognises that financial decisions can have environmental, social and governance implications.
Responsible financial management supports the University’s long-term sustainability objectives and ensures resources are managed effectively and transparently.
The University seeks to consider sustainability alongside financial performance, risk management and long-term value when reviewing financial arrangements and investment opportunities.
Ethical Investment
The University’s investment strategy is governed by our Corporate Governance and Financial Regulations and is committed to exploring how environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations can be incorporated into future investment decision-making.
We recognise that investment activities can influence environmental and social outcomes and will continue to review opportunities to align investment practices with the University’s wider sustainability ambitions.
Responsible Banking
The University recognises that banking relationships can contribute to wider sustainability outcomes.
We are committed to understanding how environmental, social and governance considerations can be reflected within future banking and treasury arrangements whilst maintaining appropriate financial stewardship and risk management.
Social Value & Community Impact
The University recognises that its activities can create benefits that extend beyond teaching, research and campus operations.
Through procurement, partnerships and investment, we seek opportunities to generate positive social value for local communities and the wider region.
This includes:
- supporting local suppliers;
- creating employment opportunities;
- encouraging apprenticeships and skills development;
- supporting community initiatives;
- working with SMEs and local businesses;
- delivering wider economic benefits.
Social value considerations help ensure the University’s activities contribute positively to people, communities and place.
Responsible Partnerships
Partnerships play an important role in supporting the University’s objectives and extending our impact beyond campus.
The University seeks to work with organisations that share our commitment to integrity, sustainability and responsible business practices.
When developing partnerships, considerations may include:
- shared values;
- sustainability objectives;
- ethical conduct;
- community impact;
- environmental performance;
- long-term value;
By working collaboratively with partners, the University can support innovation, improve sustainability outcomes and create positive impact.
Continual Improvement
Responsible business practices continue to evolve in response to emerging challenges, stakeholder expectations and best practice.
The University remains committed to reviewing its approaches, learning from experience and identifying opportunities to strengthen sustainability considerations within decision-making processes.
By embedding sustainability into the way we procure goods and services, manage finances and work with partners, we can help create positive impacts both within and beyond the University.