1.    Purpose and Scope

Özyeğin University (ÖzÜ) commits to handling procurement and supply processes within the framework of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles in line with its sustainability vision. 
The purpose of this policy is to support the reduction of environmental impacts, increase social benefit, and strengthen corporate resilience by basing the university's goods and services procurement on responsible, ethical, transparent, and sustainable approaches. 
This policy covers all procurement activities, suppliers, and relevant stakeholders of ÖzÜ and is implemented in compliance with the current legislation regarding procurement processes in universities and the Özyeğin University Procurement Regulations. 
The policy applies to direct and indirect procurement, strategic and operational supply processes, service procurement, construction works, and long-term contracts. 
2.    Main Approach and Principles 
Özyeğin University carries out its sustainable procurement activities in accordance with the following principles: 
•    Life Cycle Approach: The environmental and social impacts of goods and services are considered throughout their entire life cycle, from procurement to use and disposal. 
•    Environmental Responsibility: Efficient use of energy, water, and natural resources is prioritized; waste reduction and circular economy principles are observed, taking into account impacts on climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, and natural ecosystems. 
•    Climate and Carbon Management: Procurement and supply processes are handled to contribute to the monitoring and reduction of Scope 3 emissions within the university's carbon footprint studies. The preference for products and services that are energy-efficient, have low greenhouse gas emissions, use renewable energy, or have a calculated carbon footprint is encouraged. 
•    Risk-Based and Prioritized Approach: Procurement categories are evaluated in terms of environmental, social, and ethical risks, and priority improvement plans are developed for categories with high impact potential. 
•    Ethics and Human Rights: Ethical business practices, respect for human rights, and fair working conditions are defined as expectations within the supply chain. 
•    Supplier Engagement and Development: Suppliers are expected to improve their sustainability performance; they are supported through information, guidance, and capacity-building activities where necessary. 
•    Transparency and Accountability: Openness, traceability, and corporate responsibility are essential in procurement processes. 
•    Continuous Improvement: Regular review and development of the effectiveness of procurement practices are encouraged. 
This policy provides a framework prepared in accordance with the ISO 20400 Sustainable Procurement Guidance. 
3. Implementation Principles 
•    Consideration of environmental and social criteria in procurement processes is encouraged. 
•    Sustainability criteria (energy/water efficiency, environmental certifications, low emissions, etc.) are included in technical specifications for appropriate purchases. 
•    Suppliers are expected to comply with current legislation, ethical principles, and the university’s sustainability approach. 
•    Procurement data is aimed to be used as input for environmental impact measurement, carbon footprint studies, and corporate reporting processes. 
•    Suppliers are expected to share environmental performance information (energy consumption, emissions, waste, water use, etc.) upon request. 
•    Procurement processes must be carried out in a traceable and transparent manner within the framework of authority, approval, and reporting mechanisms. 
•    The culture of sustainable procurement is supported through awareness and capacity-building activities throughout the university. 
•    Sustainable procurement performance is monitored through defined indicators and integrated into corporate sustainability reporting. 
4. Governance and Responsibilities 
This policy is implemented with the contribution of the relevant academic and administrative units of Özyeğin University. Procurement and supply processes are handled, monitored, and evaluated in harmony with corporate sustainability goals and environmental and climate policies. 
5. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Continuous Improvement 
The effectiveness of sustainable procurement practices is periodically evaluated, taking into account procurement data, supplier profiles, environmental and social impact indicators, and outputs from carbon footprint studies. The findings provide input for the university's sustainability and quality assurance processes and are handled with a continuous improvement approach. 
6. Entry into Force 
This policy enters into force on the date of its publication and is made available to the public on the Özyeğin University website. 
7. Execution 
This policy is executed by the Rector of Özyeğin University. 
8. Basis
This policy has been prepared based on the Özyeğin University Vision and Strategic Plan, Sustainability Policy, relevant national and international legislation, United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, international standards adopted within the university's integrated management system, and the ISO 20400 Sustainable Procurement Guidance.

Release Date : 18.02.2026