Credit Language
OP 11: Materials Management – version 3.0
Indicators
- 11.1. Surplus and reuse programs
- 11.2. Single-use disposable plastics program
- 11.3. Electronic waste management
- 11.4. Hazardous waste management and disclosure
Questions & Answers
How has this credit changed between STARS Version 2 and Version 3?
- A new indicator (11.1) requires information about an institution’s surplus and reuse/redistribution programs.
- A new indicator (11.2) requires information about an institution’s initiatives to minimize single-use disposable plastic.
- Disclosure of hazardous waste is now required to earn full points.
- A comprehensive list of differences can be found in the STARS 3.0 Summary of changes.
What types of surplus and reuse programs qualify under Indicator 11.1?
This credit recognizes surplus and reuse programs for institution-owned items as well as personal items of employees and/or students.
- Surplus programs for institution-owned items may include a furniture storage and redistribution inventory program, or a surplus program with periodic auctions or online sales.
- Reuse programs through which employees and/or students can donate personal items for redistribution may include a free/thrift shop, pop-up exchange, or surplus program that redistributes office supplies, clothing, kitchen items, books, and/or electronics.
What types of certifying e-waste recyclers qualify under Indicator 11.3?
To qualify, the institution must use an e-waste recycler that is certified to one of the following standards:
- e-Stewards
- Responsible Recycling (R2)
- AS/NZS 5377:2013
- EU standard (EN 50625)
- WEEELABEX
- An equivalent standard in countries where the above are not available (email stars@aashe.org to inquire about equivalent standards)
Resources, Templates & Tools
- e-Stewards
- Responsible Recycling (R2) standards
- Equivalent conditions for waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) recycling operations taking place outside the European Union – Final Report, European Commission Environment
Suggestions for Institutions
- Work with your institution’s materials management team(s) to implement and/or adjust materials management tracking as reported under this credit.
Potential Data Quality Issues
- Score outlier: Earning full points or close to it under any particular Indicator represents a very high rate of sustainable purchasing performance. High scores and exemplary performance should be affirmed in descriptive text.