Consumables such as paper, staples or beverages are cheap if you consider how often they are used and how easily they are replaced. The decision to use more sustainable suppliers is made easier today thanks to better information and labelling, such as 'Blauer Engel' and 'ENERGYStar' which guarantee a certain standard, and when you consider the benefits that can be achieved:
Tips for more sustainable office procurement decision-making:
If possible, ordering larger quantities reduces packaging and the number of deliveries (trips), which can also be good for the environment.
UBC (2012), Sustainability Guide, http://www.familymed.ubc.ca/files/2012/04/UBC-sustainability-guide.pdf
Zero Waste Scotland, Sustainable procurement, http://www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/content/sustainable-procurement
Eco-Officiency, Benefits of becoming a sustainable business, http://www.eco-officiency.com/benefits_becoming_sustainable_business.html
Jennifer Hermes (2012), Evaluating the ROI in going green, http://www.environmentalleader.com/2012/06/19/evaluating-the-roi-in-goin...
Oeko Institute (2015), Umwelt-und Kostenentlastung durch eine umweltverträgliche Beschaffung, http://www.oeko.de/oekodoc/2379/2015-541-de.pdf