12.2 – Operational measures

12.2.7 – Disposable policy: extensions to services

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) extends its minimisation policies to outsourced suppliers and the supply chain, including suppliers of equipment, stationery and building contractors. UKM’s policies emphasize sustainability and environmental responsibility and these expectations are embedded into procurement contracts and vendor agreements.

The Tender Document for UKM’s tender collection, transportation and disposal services (UKM/JPP/ 15/2023) outlines the waste disposal requirements and responsibilities for contractors at UKM, with a strong emphasis on sustainable practices and compliance with UKM’s waste management policies. Contractors are responsible for the daily collection, transportation, and disposal of domestic and food waste from designated zones at UKM. Waste must be taken to authorized disposal sites without overnight storage to avoid odors and maintain campus cleanliness. Contractors are required to participate in UKM’s zero-waste and food waste segregation programs. This includes separating organic (e.g., food scraps) and inorganic waste (e.g., plastic, paper), placing food waste in designated bins for composting, and ensuring it is free of contaminants like oil or non-organic materials. must adhere to all local waste management laws and provide monthly reports on the weight and type of waste collected, ensuring transparent tracking of disposal activities. Besides,  contractors are expected to support UKM’s recycling and waste reduction initiatives, including recycling campaigns and clean-up activities, to foster a sustainable campus environment. This contract reflects UKM’s commitment to sustainability by embedding waste minimization, segregation, and responsible disposal practices within its service agreements.

Tender Document for Building  Cleaning and  Washing  Services (UKM/JPP/42/2023) for UKM’s cleaning services includes clauses that extend UKM’s sustainability policies to its outsourced suppliers. Specifically, contractors are required to align with UKM’s waste management and minimization practices by adhering to policies on reducing single-use items, proper waste disposal, and cleanliness standards. Contractors are expected to ensure that all cleaning and maintenance practices contribute to the university’s environmental goals, particularly in waste reduction and the minimization of disposable items. This is part of UKM’s broader commitment to sustainability across its supply chain.

UKM’s efforts towards reducing GHG emissions are supported by the implementation of Government Green Procurement Guideline in 2020 that outlines the direction for development of sustainable and integrated to conserve natural resources for the present generation and future.

The university’s efforts are spearheaded by the Circular Instruction Prohibiting the Use of Plastic Drink Straws (UKM RKK/224/4), which came into effect on 1 April 2019. This directive mandates that all food suppliers operating on campus must comply with a ban on plastic straws. It applies to all food premises on campus, and this significant policy change has been embedded into the vendor agreements for cafeterias and food outlets across the university.

This document is a circular from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) dated February 28, 2019, regarding the prohibition of plastic straws in food premises on campus. All parties involved in food supply on campus must comply with this prohibition by incorporating it into their practices. This ban is set to take effect on April 1, 2019. Faculty leaders and department heads are instructed to disseminate this directive to food premises managers, staff, and related parties within their respective areas. This initiative reflects UKM’s commitment to reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices across campus.

Reuse Paper Program

UKM encourages reuse of paper in each of the offices in UKM Bangi.  A paper reuse policy is a strategic framework aimed at minimizing paper consumption and promoting the efficient use of paper resources within organizations such as using blank sides for notes or drafts. As environmental concerns grow and the demand for sustainable practices increases, implementing a paper reuse policy has become essential for reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and lowering operational costs.

Double-sided printing policy program

UKM Bangi has done the initiative on reducing paper use by promoting a double-sided printing program promoting sustainable printing practices by encouraging the use of duplex (double-sided) printing. Besides minimizing waste by using less paper through double-sided printing, this program will decrease printing costs associated with purchasing paper and reducing waste disposal. An important element is contributing to sustainability efforts by lowering the overall carbon footprint associated with printing.

Paper purchase limitation program

A paper purchase limitation is designed to regulate and restrict the amount of paper purchased by UKM, aiming to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact. Implement systems to track paper usage and waste, enabling in UKM to assess the effectiveness of the policy and identify areas for improvement. It helps in minimizing paper waste, encouraging digital alternatives and fostering a culture of environmental awareness.

UKM follow Government green procurement guidelines (GPP) 3.0 .The paper must meet the following conditions:

• Has MyHIJAU Mark (Product) recognition operated by Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Centre.
• Has criteria for recycled content and contaminants
• Comply with the SIRIM Eco-Label Criteria Product Document (Recycled Paper)

Uses Photocopy Machines Instead Of Printer Machines Program

UKM requires the use of photocopy machines instead of printers that use more ink and carbon uses and maintenance costs. Photocopy machines have more advantages, but here are some benefits of using a photocopy machine compared to a printer. Many photocopiers have built-in duplex capabilities, allowing for double-sided copying without manual intervention. UKM has used Ricon photocopy in the administration office. Ricon is one of the brands that implement sustainability in their product (LINK). Ricon products also have the certificate under MyHIJAU (LINK)