C5: Require Vendors to Take Responsibility for Products and Packaging – Above Green

(1 point)

INTENT

To hold contracted vendors accountable for all the products and packaging received at facility to ensure diversion of those from landfill, incineration (WTE), and the environment; to encourage overall waste reduction and reduce use of hard to recycle materials.

REQUIREMENTS

Set up agreements with vendors/vendors to physically take back and properly dispose of all products and packaging. Alternatively, require vendor/vendor to reimburse for the proper disposal or products and packaging or provide credits for these items.

POTENTIAL STRATEGIES

Include language in bid specifications or purchase orders to require vendors to take back products and packaging, particularly those that are difficult to reuse, recycle, or compost for the company. Alternatively, create agreement to receive reimbursements or credits for these items.

SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTATION

Narrative describing when and how the vendors/vendors take responsibility for products and packaging, and what the products and packaging are. Narrative should include a description of how the organization holds vendors accountable.
Documentation could include agreements, RFPs, bid specifications, purchase orders, checks or invoices showing credits, or written communications with vendors.