Integrate sustainability within procurement
Integrate sustainability within procurement
As the first International Standard on Sustainable Procurement, the ISO 20400 contains guidance on an overview of sustainable procurement. It describes the principles, examines why organisations should undertake this, and provides guidance on how to integrate this at a strategic level. It also states the management techniques needed for implementation.
Every organisation has environmental, social, and economic impacts. Procurement is a powerful instrument for organisations wishing to behave in a responsible way and contribute to sustainable development and the achievement of UN SDGs. By integrating sustainability in procurement policies and practices, including supply chains, organisations can manage risks (including opportunities) for sustainable environmental, social, and economic development.
An organisation and its procurement function should take into consideration ISO 26000, with all seven core subjects and 37 sustainability issues, and their interdependence when developing its sustainable procurement policy. The seven core subjects are as follows:
1. Organisational governance
2. Human rights
3. Labour practices
4. Environment
5. Fair operating practices
6. Consumer Issues
7. Community Involvement and development
ISO 20400 provides an internationally recognised and standardised way to measure your organisation’s sustainable procurement.
• Integrates sustainability within the procurement process, at the strategic level, policies & practices, and processes of your organisation.
• Manage Reputational Risks
• Promote Innovation
• Provides sustainability benefits, including savings over the life cycle
• Contributes to the local economy
• Encourages small & medium enterprise suppliers
• Improves human rights situation in the supply chain
• Reduces resource wastage and emission
The increased importance of Sustainable Procurement demands demonstrated performance by organisations against global frameworks like ISO 20400. The guideline is designed to be international, flexible, and applicable to any organisation, anywhere. Consequently, the overall recommendations of the ISO 20400 sustainable procurement need to be translated as per your organisation’s specific context and activities.
TÜV SÜD has wide-ranging experience in the assessment of organisations against sustainability frameworks. Our experts work closely with you to see how ISO 20400 audit requirements apply to your organisation. Based on the suggested action points for your company, you can build a Sustainable Procurement Process to fulfil stakeholders' expectations.
TÜV SÜD provides verification services against the ISO 20400 Sustainable Procurement Guidance. When we work with you, you can expect:
When you choose TÜV SÜD, you gain access to a range of benefits tied to the ISO 20400 certification. One key advantage is the support provided by our team of qualified sustainability experts. They bring their expertise to assist you throughout the certification process.
We are here to support you with ongoing ISO 20400 verification and annual surveillance, ensuring that your sustainability practices remain up-to-date and compliant. With TÜV SÜD, you can trust in our comprehensive services and the dedication of our team to help you navigate the ISO 20400 certification journey successfully.
For more information about ISO 20400, or to find out more about our services, contact us today.
ISO 20400 certification refers to the certification process based on the ISO 20400 standard, which focuses on sustainable procurement. ISO 20400 provides guidelines and recommendations for organisations to integrate sustainability principles into their procurement practices. It offers a framework to promote socially responsible and environmentally sustainable procurement decisions.
The importance of ISO 20400 lies in its ability to provide guidelines that are essential for achieving sustainability goals and enhancing supplier relationship management. By following the standard, organisations can benefit in several ways:
• Ensure supply chain security: ISO 20400 assists in establishing practices that enhance the security of the supply chain, ensuring that it remains robust and reliable.
• Prevent financial, environmental, and reputational risks: The standard helps organisations identify and mitigate risks associated with finance, environment, and reputation. By adopting its guidelines, businesses can proactively address potential issues and avoid negative consequences.
• Foster investor and customer confidence: ISO 20400 demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices and responsible supply chain management. This can enhance trust and confidence among investors and customers who prioritise sustainability, leading to potential business opportunities and growth.
• Contribute to opening new markets for products and services: Adhering to ISO 20400 can assist in expanding market reach by appealing to customers who value sustainability. Many markets today prioritise environmentally friendly and socially responsible products and services, and certification to ISO 20400 can serve as a competitive advantage in accessing these markets.
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