Environmental sustainability
At UNSW, sustainability is a core value embedded in every aspect of our operations. Recognising the intricacy of our supply chains and their significant environmental implications, we're dedicated to driving positive change through our procurement practices.
Central to our efforts is our Sustainable Procurement Framework, underpinning our path towards more sustainable supply chain outcomes. Within this framework, we prioritise the following key areas:
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Climate Action
In our Environmental Sustainability Plan, we've pledged to reduce our total scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to net zero, in alignment with global efforts to limit the rise in temperature to no more than 1.5°C.
A comprehensive assessment of our value chain's GHG footprint revealed that the majority of our emissions are indirect or ‘scope 3’ emissions, with nearly half associated with our suppliers. We're determined to achieve our 2030 target of a 50% reduction in total emissions by:
- Engaging with our suppliers
- Evolving our behaviours
- Adapting our processes
Nature
Climate change and biodiversity loss are deeply linked to each other – carbon reductions and nature enhancement must be addressed simultaneously to drive a swift transition to a nature-positive, climate stable future.
In 2024, UNSW, conducted an assessment to identify nature-related impacts and dependencies through our supply chain. This study presents one of the first such analyses that has been conducted for a university globally.
As part of this assessment, a supply chain nature roadmap was developed setting out actions to reduce nature impacts, manage nature-related risks, improve data quality, develop internal capacity, systems and processes, and create partnerships to drive meaningful results. The project team will continue to build out the roadmap and begin implementation of priority actions in 2024.
Circularity
Our operations and supply chain consume finite natural resources, and we recognise the opportunity to improve resource efficiency, minimise waste and support the transition to a more circular economy.
Through strategic partnerships, innovative practices, and a commitment to continuous improvement, our aim is to redefine how we source, use, reuse and dispose of materials.
Our circular supply chain initiative focuses on:
- Sourcing goods with recycled content and full lifecycle design
- Adopting sustainable and efficient service models
- Packaging and waste reduction
