12.2.7.   Disposable policy: extensions to services

Middle East Technical University (METU) enforces strict institutional directives ensuring that its waste reduction and single-use material minimization policies extend directly to outsourced services, campus commercial venues, independent contractors, and the broader procurement supply chain. Governed by the national Waste Directive of the Ministry of Environment and Urban Planning (https://www.resmigazete.gov.tr/eskiler/2015/04/20150402-2.htm) and codified in the METU Inorganic Waste and Recycling Policy (http://sustainablecampus.metu.edu.tr/en/policies) METU requires all external business partners, vendors, and suppliers operating on campus to adhere to binding waste prevention and packaging regulations.

1. Scope of Extension to Co-operating Entities & Third-Party Vendors

As stated in the official METU Inorganic Waste and Recycling Policy, METU’s waste policies are specifically designed to guide all official institutions, organizations, commercial businesses, and individuals with which the university cooperates. All relevant stakeholders are required to operate within a solid waste management system based on recycling waste, reusing materials, or avoiding waste generation altogether.

2. Specific Directives Binding Outsourced Services & Suppliers

• Ban on Disposable Materials in Commercial Outlets: Disposable and non-environmentally friendly service materials made of plastic, aluminum, or foam cannot be used in canteens, cafeterias, restaurants, and buffets located on campus. Furthermore, these products cannot be sold in the commercial markets operating within campus boundaries.
• Supply Chain Packaging Requirements: All commercial suppliers delivering goods to the university campus are expected to package and sell their products exclusively in reusable or recyclable packaging.
• Campus Events & Catering Services: In all academic and social meetings, conferences, and public events held on the university campus, reusable service products must be preferred instead of disposable products by all internal and third-party organizers.
• Internal Paperless Digital Transition: To reduce supplier paper trails and administrative waste, internal and external correspondences are mandated via the Electronic Document Management System (EBYS), while educational materials are delivered digitally through ODTUCLASS to ensure students receive a minimum number of printouts.