Paper (defined as printing paper) is one of the key consumables procured across all departments in NUS. There is much more that can be done to purchase more sustainably when it comes to paper, including paper-related products such as paper towels, name cards, etc.

As stewards of a shared environment, we have an opportunity and responsibility to contribute to a sustainable ecosystem. Choosing sustainably sourced and produced paper not only helps preserve our precious forests but also supports ethical and eco-friendly practices throughout the value chain.

Suppliers are encouraged to: NUS Community is encouraged to:
  • obtain recognised sustainability certification and/or standards to ensure responsible sourcing of paper from sustainably managed forests,
  • offer paper products with high level of recycled content and encourage the use of post-industrial recycled materials to reduce the demand for virgin fibers,
  • optimise production processes and transportation to reduce carbon footprint, waste generation, water usage and energy consumption,
  • minimise excessive packaging and use eco-friendly packaging materials, and
  • comply with ethical labour standards and ensuring safe working condition for the workers throughout their supply chain.
 
Minimise unnecessary purchases
  • Always ask yourself whether there is any necessity to print and turn to paperless alternatives, such as using e-name card to replace physical name cards, electronic notebook to replace physical notebook and electronic publication to replace printed version.
Source credibly certified products
  • If you really need to buy, consider buying recycled paper or paper sourced from responsibly managed forests.
  • The paper from NUS Period Contract ^ is certified under Singapore Green Labelling Scheme (SGLS) and Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PESC).
Dispose responsibly
  • Join the Zero Waste movement at NUS! Most paper is recyclable. Check the list of recyclables at NUS campus and let's Recycle Right. Every sheet of recycled paper is a step towards a greener campus and we encourage you to do your part by disposing your paper waste responsibly in the campus blue bins.
^ Restricted access to NUS Community

 

The below certifications and/or standards serve as valuable guidance and benchmarks to evaluate the sustainability of product purchased.

Singapore Green Labelling Scheme


Singapore Green Label is one of Singapore’s leading environmental standard and certification mark, with aim to help the public identify environmentally preferred products that meet certain eco-standards.

Enhanced Singapore Green Labelling Scheme


Enhanced Singapore Green Labelling Scheme for Pulp and Paper enables companies to adopt and comply with good and recognised forest management practices and standards. Besides setting standards on forest management, the Enhanced SGLS also set standards on hazardous chemicals that are released during the manufacturing of paper products.
Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification


Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification promotes sustainable forest management though forest certifications.

Forest Stewardship Council


The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) label identifies products that come from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social and economic benefits

There are three (3) types of FSC labels:

FSC 100% - All material used come from responsibly managed, FSC-certified forest.
FSC Recycled – The product is made from 100% recycled materials.
FSC Mix: The product is made from a mixture of materials from FSC-certified forest, recycled materials and/or FSC-controlled wood.

Rainforest Alliance


 

The Rainforest Alliance is an international non-profit organisation focus on forest protection, human rights and support climate resilience efforts and sustainable livelihoods.