How do you include sustainability in your import/export records?

1 Choose sustainability standards and indicators

One of the first steps to include sustainability in your import/export records is to choose the standards and indicators that suit your business goals and values. There are many frameworks and tools available to measure and report sustainability, such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB). These standards and indicators can help you define what sustainability means for your import/export operations, and how to track and communicate your progress.

2 Collect and verify sustainability data

Once you have chosen your sustainability standards and indicators, you need to collect and verify the data that supports them. This may involve using different sources and methods, such as invoices, receipts, surveys, audits, and certifications. You also need to ensure that your data is accurate, reliable, and consistent, by applying quality control measures and third-party verification. You can use software and tools to help you store, organize, and analyze your sustainability data, such as Excel, Google Sheets, or specialized platforms.

3 Report and disclose sustainability information

The final step to include sustainability in your import/export records is to report and disclose your sustainability information to your stakeholders. This may include your customers, suppliers, investors, regulators, and the public. You can use different formats and channels to report and disclose your sustainability information, such as annual reports, sustainability reports, websites, social media, or labels. You also need to follow the reporting and disclosure requirements and guidelines of your target markets and industry associations.

4 Use sustainability records to improve your performance

Including sustainability in your import/export records is not only a way to comply with regulations and expectations, but also a way to improve your performance and competitiveness. By using your sustainability records, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses, set goals and targets, monitor and evaluate your progress, and communicate your achievements. You can also use your sustainability records to benchmark your performance against your peers and best practices, and to identify opportunities for innovation and collaboration.

5 Seek feedback and learning from your stakeholders

Another way to include sustainability in your import/export records is to seek feedback and learning from your stakeholders. By engaging with your stakeholders, you can understand their needs and expectations, address their concerns and questions, and build trust and loyalty. You can also learn from their experiences and insights, and use them to improve your sustainability practices and performance. You can seek feedback and learning from your stakeholders through surveys, interviews, focus groups, workshops, or online platforms.

6 Review and update your sustainability records regularly

Finally, to include sustainability in your import/export records, you need to review and update them regularly. Sustainability is not a static concept, but a dynamic and evolving one. Therefore, you need to keep up with the changes and trends in your industry, markets, and society, and adapt your sustainability standards, indicators, data, and reports accordingly. You also need to review and update your sustainability records to reflect your achievements and challenges, and to showcase your continuous improvement and commitment.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?