Goal 14:
Life Below Water
Sustainable Food from Aquatic Ecosystems
The University of Newcastle’s Procurement Framework explicitly requires sustainable sourcing (which includes aquatic products).
In particular, in 2024:
- Our Procurement Policy (clause 16, in concert with clause 15) mandates that in assessing “value for money”, non‑cost criteria must include environmental sustainability, favouring products “produced and distributed in a sustainable and ethical manner.”
- The Policy stipulates that procurement decisions should favour suppliers who minimise adverse environmental impacts, support lifecycle stewardship, and demonstrate strong environmental track records.
- In other words, when food is sourced from aquatic ecosystems (such as seafood), it is subject to the same sustainability and ethical standards as any other product under the Policy’s environmental criteria.
This policy was effective from the 15th of September 2023 and was reviewed in March 2025.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.