Driving Sustainability: How MNU Partners with Contractors for Responsible Waste Practices

At The Maldives National University (MNU), environmental stewardship extends beyond the classroom and into every aspect of campus operations. Through our Policy on Minimising Plastic Use and our MNU Procurement Policy we actively partner with external contractors—including cleaning, catering, maintenance, and facility vendors—to enforce responsible waste management and drastically reduce single-use plastics across all university premises.

Here is how MNU collaborates with and sets formal expectations for our contracted service providers to foster a greener, more sustainable campus environment.

1. Expanding Responsibility Across Campus Operations

Our sustainability goals apply universally. Contractual agreements mandate that all vendors, tenants, service providers, and event organizers operating within MNU properties adhere to the same rigorous waste-reduction and procurement standards as our staff and students.

2. Setting Standards Across Key Service Areas

Catering & Event Services

Events and dining are major focal points for plastic reduction. Catering vendors and food service providers operating on campus must adhere to strict guidelines:

• Zero Single-Use Plastics: The distribution of single-use plastic water bottles, cups, plates, bowls, trays, cutlery, straws, and stirrers is strictly prohibited.

• Reusable Solutions: Refreshments and meals must be served using durable, reusable tableware, glass bottles, or refillable beverage containers.

Cleaning & Maintenance Operations

Our facility management and cleaning partners play a critical role in maintaining daily eco-friendly practices:

• Waste Segregation & Recycling: Cleaning staff actively support waste separation protocols, ensuring recyclable plastics are properly directed into designated waste streams.

• Responsible Supply Usage: Contractors are encouraged to minimize plastic packaging and single-use protective wrappings when storing or transporting cleaning agents and maintenance equipment.

3. Mandatory Procurement Rules & Vendor Accountability

Sustainability starts before products even arrive on campus. Under MNU’s official Procurement Rules, environmental and waste-reduction criteria are directly integrated into purchasing and contract evaluation:

• Green Procurement Standards: Administrative and procurement units must prioritize vendors that supply durable, reusable, or eco-friendly goods over single-use items.

• Packaging Restrictions: Suppliers and delivery partners are required to minimize single-use packaging and use packaging made from reusable or recyclable materials whenever feasible.

• Contractual Compliance: Compliance with university waste and environmental policies is embedded into vendor selection criteria, ensuring long-term accountability for third-party partners.

By integrating these expectations into our daily operations, purchasing framework, and third-party contracts, MNU ensures that every partner shares in our commitment to protecting the Maldivian environment and supporting global Sustainable Development Goals.