Purchasing
The College works to purchase responsibly and seeks products with third-party certifications where possible.
The Reem-Kayden Center at Bard features geothermal heating and cooling, and an advanced energy recovery system.
Buying Green
Subcontractors are asked to follow responsible purchasing protocols. It is important to evaluate the life cycle impact of a product, from manufacturing through disposal.Some of our responsible choices include using cleaning products that are Green Seal or EcoLogo-certified, buying products that meet Energy Star™ specifications for energy efficiency, and choosing paper products with recycled content. Our subcontractor, Chartwells, buys seafood that meets Monterey Marine Stewardship standards; eggs are cage free.
Students are asked to bring products from home that meet applicable sustainability standards. Download "What to bring to Bard" (PDF).
Paper and Office Supplies
The College sources paper products that are Green Seal Certified and with postconsumer recycled content. Employees are able to choose green products from our office supply company. In 2012, 69% of our paper purchased had 30%-100% recycled content. Click here to see our 2011 submission to STARS.Computers
Bard follows the EPEAT standards in purchasing computers, printers, and other plug-in equipment. See the Guidelines & Policies for IT's policy statement.Cleaning Products
In 2011, over 40 percent (as a function of dollars spent) of cleaning products purchased by Aramark were Green Seal Certified.VIEW MORE >>
Food and Water
Bard’s food is provided by Chartwells. They support the local dairy industry, with 100% of Bard milk sourced through Hudson Valley Fresh. You can see how Chartwells is doing on other issues like trans fats, egg certification, and more in Bard's STARS report (click on Operations then Dining), and on their website.Cutting down on red meat consumption is important! Did you know according to a UN report, raising animals for meat is the cause of 18% of global greenhouse gas emissions, more than all forms of transport put together?
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Actions and Materials
- Fruits & Vegetables —Get a wallet guide to help you prioritize your purchases of fruits and vegetables. Find the Dirty Dozen and 12 low-pesticide produce items.
- Eggs-- Chartwells follows the Humane Farm Animal Care Standards for Egg Laying Hens. Read them here.
