Sustainable Procurement and Investment Policy and Implementation Framework
Policy Overview

Near East University is committed to conducting its investment and procurement processes in line with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. The University integrates sustainability considerations into all purchasing and investment decisions in order to minimize environmental impact and support responsible resource use.

The policy covers all financial investments, purchasing activities, supply processes, and infrastructure-related procurement carried out by the University.

Sustainable Procurement Approach

Near East University applies sustainability criteria in all procurement processes and prioritizes environmentally responsible purchasing practices. Sustainability considerations are embedded into supplier selection, purchasing decisions, and supply chain management.

Key Sustainable Procurement Practices

The University implements sustainable procurement through the following principles:

• Preference for environmentally friendly and energy-efficient products
  • Prioritization of local and ethical suppliers to support regional sustainability and reduce transportation emissions
  • Use of recycled, reusable, and environmentally sustainable materials, particularly in construction and procurement processes
  • Supplier selection based on environmental and social responsibility criteria
  • Promotion of transparent, traceable, and accountable supply chains
  • Consideration of life-cycle impacts in purchasing decisions

Implementation and Monitoring

Sustainable procurement practices are implemented through institutional purchasing procedures managed by the relevant administrative units.

The Finance Department and Purchasing Unit are responsible for applying sustainability criteria in procurement decisions.

The Sustainability Commission monitors the implementation of these practices and provides recommendations for continuous improvement within the University’s integrated quality assurance system.

Sustainable Investment Principles

Near East University ensures that its investment strategies align with ESG principles and contribute to environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

The University prioritizes investments in:

• Renewable energy and green technologies
• Circular economy and sustainable development initiatives
• Socially responsible sectors such as education and healthcare

The University excludes investments in:

• Fossil fuel-based industries
• Companies with high environmental impact
• Organizations violating human rights or ethical standards

Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

Through its sustainable procurement and investment practices, Near East University aims to:

• Reduce environmental impact and carbon footprint
• Promote sustainable production and consumption
• Support local economies and responsible suppliers
• Contribute to global sustainability goals and climate action

Continuous Improvement

This policy is reviewed periodically and updated in line with institutional sustainability goals and international standards.

The University ensures continuous improvement through monitoring, evaluation, and integration with its quality assurance and performance management system.

Version: 1        Creation date: 12 July 2024        Last review date:12 June 2025

1. Purpose
This policy aims to ensure that Near East University's financial investments and purchasing/supply processes are carried out in accordance with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. This document defines the principles that will ensure that the university acts in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.

2. Scope
This policy applies to the following items managed by the university:

• All investment funds (endowments, financial reserves, long-term assets)
• Purchasing and supply transactions (purchases of products, services, equipment, and infrastructure)

3. Sustainable Investment Principles

Near East University ensures that its investment strategies align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. The university prioritizes investment in renewable energy initiatives, sustainabletechnologies, and socially responsible sectors such as education and healthcare. Investment activities exclude sectors that conflict with its sustainability values, such as fossil fuels or industries with unethical labor practices. This approach reflects the university's commitment to long-term environmental stewardship and global social responsibility.

• Environmental Responsibility: Investments are not made in sectors with high carbon emissions, environmental pollution and unsustainable resource use.
• Social Responsibility: Companies that value human rights, labor rights, gender equality, and social justice are given priority.
• Ethics in Governance: Organizations with transparency, accountability and ethical business practices are supported.
• Investment Exclusions:
• Fossil fuel production
• Tobacco and arms industry
• Companies documented to have violated human rights

• Preferred Investments:
• Renewable energy, green technologies
• Circular economy, sustainable agriculture
• Companies with high ESG scores

4. Sustainable Purchasing Principles

Near East University observes the following sustainability principles in its purchasing processes:

• Environmentally friendly products and packaging are preferred.
• Local and ethical suppliers are prioritised.
• We work with companies that have social responsibility.
• Products with high energy efficiency are purchased.
• Traceability and a transparent supply chain are taken as a basis.

Near East University is committed to sustainable procurement practices that align with its broader environmental and social goals. The university prioritizes purchasing from local suppliers to support the regional economy and minimize transportation-related emissions. In all construction and renovation projects, recycled and environmentally friendly materials are used wherever possible. Procurement decisions are made by considering environmental and social responsibility criteria, including supplier adherence to ethical labor standards and sustainable production practices.

5. Implementation and Monitoring

• The Department of Finance and the Purchasing Unit are responsible for implementing this policy.
• The Sustainability Commission periodically monitors the implementation and provides suggestions for improvement.

6. Review
This policy is reviewed every two years and updated as necessary.