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| The decision to implement a green supply chain may seem a little daunting and challenging. Successful engagement requires patience, persistence and an open mind, as well as willingness to overcome challenges such as listening to critics; identifying champions; securing buy-in from stakeholders; coordinating the activities of internal functions and suppliers; ensuring clear communication between internal functions and suppliers; addressing technical difficulties that can arise and hinder implementation; or confronting difficulties encountered in correctly specifying new materials and production processes. Ironically, some companies see little evidence of demand for sustainable solutions in printed material. In part, this may be due to the complex specification and purchasing relationships that exist among designers, printers and corporate customers. In part, it may be due to lack of information, lack of awareness, lack of knowledge or apathy on the part of buyers. So to make this task a little easier EnviroAssist enables businesses to match their business values with their sustainability objectives. We believe that starting with the basics ensures a more holistic approach than force fitting pre specified stock selections. Just as there are many certification systems within the sustainability field there are varying interests and objectives. EnviroAssist does not tell you which is the “best stock to use” rather the one that best fits your business strategies. |
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Clarifying corporate values and objectives
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| The first step is to clarify objectives and the core corporate values and goals that influence them. Business goals may range from enhancing corporate reputation and supply chain integrity to driving social and environmental progress on the ground and at a global level. Enhancing Corporate Reputation
Improving a company’s reputation with various stakeholders, including environmental groups has a number of strategic benefits. Companies have the opportunity to receive support and positive public relations, which often translates into improved business credibility with customers. Also by taking the lead on issues such as environmental and social issues, companies stay ahead of potential regulatory initiatives that may affect their business. Improving Supply Chain Efficiency
Aligning with Like-Minded companies within your supply chain promotes sustainable relationships built on shared values, helping the streamline the production process. By using independently certified products and services it filters and determines which businesses to work with and those to avoid. Inquiries into a supplier’s willingness in transparent reporting on environmental issues is not only a gauge of their environmental leadership but also their overall responsiveness as a supplier. Forest Products
Many companies have addressed environmental issues in the paper industry by setting up environmental management systems (EMS – ISO14001). They often reflect core activities such as waste minimisation, energy reduction, water conservation etc. By peering deeper into various certification systems often un earth larger commitments including but not limited to encouraging forest management that protect ecologically significant forests, enhancing biodiversity and social conditions including human rights. Typically, when companies source forest products globally, there is a higher risk that the paper could be derived from unsustainable forestry practices or harvested illegally. Thus purchasing products that are associated with practices that are detrimental could harm a company’s reputation, cause it to lose market share or even create legal challenges. Click here to download the article "Catalogues don't grow on trees". Independent Third Party Certified Systems
Independent third party certified systems offer credibility. Their independence enables them to develop, promote and implement standards in a open, transparent and responsible way.
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Steps to consider
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Step 1: Clarify Corporate Values and Objectives - What are my company's corporate values?
- What are our objectives and targets in relation to our CSR policy?
- How are our stakeholders involved?
Step 2: Consider Options Available - What are our current activities in relation to paper and print?
- Are our suppliers audited in relation to environmental activities?
- What factors are considered in paper selection, ie environmental, social and economic (triple bottom line).
- Is quality an issue?
Step 3: Link Business Values into a sustainable green supply chain - Are our CSR and Environmental Objectives and Targets portrayed in what and how we print?
- Who is responsible and what works best for our business?
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