Purchasing

Establish purchasing guidelines to encourage waste prevention (durable, concentrated, reusable, high quality).
Consider length of warranty and availability of repair services when purchasing equipment.
Substitute less toxic materials for toxic materials (e.g., vegetable-based inks, water-based glue, markers and paints).
Order merchandise with minimal packaging or layers of packaging.
Request that deliveries be shipped in returnable containers.
Order supplies by voice mail or electronic mail.
Use optical scanners, which give more details about inventory, allowing more precise ordering.