How do you align your supply chain with the SDGs?

1 Assess your impacts

The first step is to assess your current impacts and performance on the SDGs across your supply chain. You can use various tools and frameworks, such as the SDG Compass, the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), or the UN Global Compact, to identify the most relevant and material SDGs for your business and your suppliers. You can also conduct a gap analysis to see where you are falling short or where you have opportunities to improve. This will help you prioritize your actions and set realistic and measurable targets.

2 Engage your stakeholders

The second step is to engage your stakeholders, such as your customers, employees, investors, suppliers, communities, and regulators, in your SDG alignment process. You can communicate your vision and goals, solicit their feedback and input, and collaborate with them on solutions and initiatives. By engaging your stakeholders, you can build trust and transparency, foster mutual understanding and alignment, and leverage their expertise and resources.

3 Implement your actions

The third step is to implement your actions and initiatives to align your supply chain with the SDGs. You can use various strategies and practices, such as sourcing from responsible and certified suppliers, adopting circular economy principles, reducing waste and emissions, promoting fair labor and human rights, supporting local development and social inclusion, and innovating for sustainable products and services. You can also join or create platforms and networks, such as the UN Global Compact, the Sustainable Purchasing Leadership Council, or the Responsible Business Alliance, to share best practices and learn from others.

4 Monitor and report your progress

The fourth step is to monitor and report your progress and performance on the SDGs across your supply chain. You can use indicators and metrics, such as the GRI Standards, the SDG Indicators, or the Corporate Human Rights Benchmark, to measure and track your impacts and outcomes. You can also use tools and formats, such as the SDG Action Manager, the Communication on Progress, or the Sustainability Report, to disclose and communicate your results and achievements. By monitoring and reporting your progress, you can evaluate your effectiveness and efficiency, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and demonstrate your accountability and credibility.

5 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?