Sustainability Policy

Environmental Management Program

Although SABG is not required to report carbon or greenhouse gas emissions, when applicable, we will take this information into consideration when choosing suppliers. We include similar requirements in our subcontractor and other supplier agreements. We work with our landlords to ensure they are implementing a robust sustainability program, and fully support all sustainability efforts as a tenant. SABG has a robust emergency preparedness procedure to mitigate environmental impacts in the event of natural or other disasters.

SABG’s environmental goals include:

Minimizing our organizational and individual carbon footprints
Engaging with environmentally responsible suppliers
Encouraging supplier diversity
Ensuring employees’ environmental awareness

Recycling Program

Recycle as much waste material as possible. SABG offices use traditional paper recycling and shredding services. Additionally, recycling bins that collect plastic, cardboard, and other recyclable material are available in our offices.
Recycle equipment no longer of use to the company. As appropriate, we donate or responsibly recycle items such as furniture, computers, computer consumables, and printers we no longer use.
Provide employees with information on responsible recycling practices tailored for home environments.

Reduction and Responsible Use

Avoid the use of paper wherever possible. For example, invoices and quotes can be submitted electronically via email or uploaded to secure websites.
Reuse wastepaper (from the printer) where possible, using the blank side for notes, etc.
Keep energy usage low. For example, using motion sensor light switches throughout our facilities, ensuring efficient HVAC settings, and regularly maintaining our office equipment to maximize energy efficiency.
Save energy and support sustainable IT practices through the use of cloud storage, which removes the need for individual storage devices and physical servers and minimizes our reliance on paper.

Transportation

Use low-impact transport for travel to and from work and travel for business, including encouraging carpooling among employees on business travel and offering a commuter benefits program that contributes to eligible bus, train, carpool, or vanpool expenses.
Avoid unnecessary travel through a hybrid work schedule when possible.
Encourage the use of tele-meetings when possible.
Offer the option for virtual health visits through our employee benefits program.

Supplier Diversity

Sustainability goes beyond environmental impact – diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as social justice, are essential components of sustainability. To align with our commitment to these areas, SABG seeks out historically disadvantaged businesses and products and services from companies that meet supplier diversity criteria while also providing environmentally preferable products and services. While this is not always possible, SABG will work with diverse suppliers to find supplies that fit the bill.

Responsible Purchasing Guidelines

Responsible Purchasing is the acquisition of goods and services that meet the business and research needs of the consumer while also being environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and ethically sourced. The purpose of these guidelines is to support and facilitate the purchase of products and materials that minimize the harmful effects from their production, transportation, use, and disposition.

Use these basic considerations prior to making purchases:

Is it necessary? Habit and impulse can be powerful drivers and may lead to unnecessary purchases. Confirm the purchase meets an actual need, and, if so, what quantity is really necessary. Evaluate automatic re-orders periodically to make sure they still reflect current needs.
Does it provide the best long-term value? A high quality, long-lasting product is a better choice economically and environmentally than a less expensive product of inferior quality that will have to be replaced frequently.
Is it made from reused or recycled products? From office supplies to building supplies, products made with recycled content cause significantly less environmental stress than those made with brand new materials. Details about what portion of the product/packaging are made from recycled content should be available on the product label. Click for more detail on label language.
Is the packaging minimal? In the U.S., 90% of product packaging goes to the landfill. Choose options with the most minimal packaging possible. For larger and/or repeat orders, work with vendors to set low/no packaging delivery standards.
Is it energy and water efficient? Products designed for low energy/water use are good environmental and economic choices, providing years of operational savings in water, energy, and dollars. Choose products with WaterSense and Energy Star certifications. For electronics, look for products with an EPEAT rating of silver or higher. Avoid products that require continuous power.
Can it be disposed of responsibly? Think about the product’s end of life. The best product choices will be long-lasting and eligible for campus recycling or composting post-use. When short-term use is required (e.g., disposable serving ware), select products that can be composted. If that is not possible, look for items that can be reused or recycled.
Is it available locally? Purchasing from local sources reduces greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, increases access to information about vendor practices, and supports the local economy.
Is it a low/no toxins choice? Harmful chemicals can be found in anything from cleaning products to paint to three-ring binders, but equally effective low/no toxin options are available. Avoid products with VOCs, formaldehyde, chlorine and PVCs, lead, and mercury. For cleaning, sanitary, and building equipment and maintenance products, look for options that are Green Seal or Ecologo certified.
Is the product made in a socially responsible way? Look for goods and services from companies that prioritize social responsibility, including a workplace free from harassment and discrimination, fair wages and conditions for workers, and environmentally friendly operations. Fair Trade Certification indicates a product has been vetted for “safe working conditions, environmental protections, sustainable livelihoods and community development funds” and can be a good starting point, as is checking for participation in the Fair Labor Association. Reviewing published company policies and relevant media from reliable news sources can also provide useful context. The US Department of Labor maintains a list of products considered likely to be made by child or forced labor. When you do not have time to research or cannot find the information you need, here’s a basic rule of thumb: if a product is priced so low it is hard to believe, it is highly likely that the people making it are being exploited. Think twice.

General Guidelines

Reduce waste by buying only what we need.
Support environmental health by buying items produced with, operated with, and disposed of using environmentally beneficial practices.
Support human health by avoiding products with toxic ingredients and outputs.
Support social health by choosing manufacturers and vendors that treat workers and communities with equity and respect.