How Facility Managers Can Embrace Sustainable & Responsible Procurement

Sustainability within organizations involves a range of strategies including recycling, energy reduction and waste minimization. A notable 69% of B2B buyers prioritize sustainability¹, leading to partnerships with credible vendors. Implementing sustainability in procurement and facilities management poses challenges such as research, storage, hygiene, and cost considerations. In addition, procurement teams often find it challenging to grasp how buying choices can influence organizational sustainability objectives. By partnering with eco-conscious suppliers, facility managers and purchasing teams can help their organization take one step closer to attaining a greener future.  

Enter Kimberly-Clark Professional's Responsible Partners initiative, available to participating agencies of OMNIA Partners through your selected distributor’s cooperative contract. Product designation icons clearly call out towel, tissue and soap SKUs that feature attributes like composability, compact packaging, and responsible transport, making it easy for facilities to identify and select sustainable solutions.

Keep reading to discover how to identify products that earn the Responsible Partners designation. HINT: They must have at least THREE of the benefits mentioned below.

1. ECOLOGO^® Certified: The ECOLOGO® third party certification serves as an emblem for products adhering to stringent environmental standards. This accreditation addresses concerns of greenwashing and assures consumers that sustainability claims are validated independently.

2. Reduced CO²: Products labeled this way have reduced CO² through improvements in production, transportation, or usage that minimize carbon emissions. Such optimization aids in the fight against clime change and reinforces an eco-conscious stance. 

3. Compostability: This approach alleviates landfill burden and promotes sustainable disposal practices because these products can break down into nutrient-rich compost. 

4. Recycled Fiber: Selecting products made from recycled fiber is a strategic step towards reducing the demand for virgin resources. This choice helps combat issues linked to deforestation, habitat destruction, and resource depletion.

5. Compact Packaging: Efficient packaging minimizes material usage and optimizes storage and transportation without sacrificing quality and performance. By curbing excess waste and inefficiencies, businesses can make strides towards sustainable supply chain management.

6. Recyclable Materials: The incorporation of recyclable materials enables products to be collected, processed, and repurposed. This approach diverts waste from landfills and oceans, promoting a circular economy.

7. Renewable Energy: By harnessing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, businesses can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. This shift not only reduces a product’s carbon emissions but also contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable energy mix.

8. More Efficient Formulas: Skincare products featured in the portfolio feature foam formulations, which are more efficient than