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: 

• Improved image with customers, business partners and suppliers
• Employees take pride in working for an environmentally friendly employer
• Better business performance thanks to the above combined benefits
• Diverse environmental gains, such as water and energy savings
• Financial savings thanks to the above environmental benefits 

Tips for more sustainable office procurement decision-making:

• Identify regular or popular consumables
• Search for alternatives online or through retail catalogues with the help of product labels and information
• Develop criteria for their replacement
• Choose the best sustainable alternative in terms of price-quality

If possible, ordering larger quantities reduces packaging and the number of deliveries (trips), which can also be good for the environment.