In a globalized world where supply chains often span several continents, it is crucial to assume social and environmental responsibility along the entire supply chain. This applies in particular to public institutions, which set an example through their procurement practices. Ensuring fair working conditions, respecting human rights and protecting the environment are key aspects to consider when procuring furniture. In this blog, we explain the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and compliance with human rights in the supply chain. We also present the ISO 26000 and ISO 20400 standards and show how Bruno Wickart can support public institutions in the evaluation of suppliers and the integration of CSR criteria.

Importance of CSR and compliance with human rights in the supply chain

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) describes a company’s responsibility for the impact of its own actions on society and the environment. In the context of the supply chain, CSR means that companies not only consider the conditions in their own operations, but also those of their suppliers and subcontractors. This includes compliance with human rights, fair working conditions and environmental protection.

Why is CSR so important in the supply chain?

Protection of human rights: In many countries, basic human rights such as fair wages, the ban on child labor and the right to safe working conditions are not adequately protected. Companies have a responsibility to ensure that these rights are also respected in their supply chains.
Reputation and risk management: Violations of social and environmental standards can lead to considerable reputational damage and legal consequences. Compliance with CSR criteria helps to minimize these risks and strengthen the trust of customers and stakeholders.
Sustainable development: By complying with social and environmental standards, companies contribute to sustainable development and promote a fairer and more environmentally friendly way of doing business.

It is particularly important for public institutions to take CSR into account in their procurement processes, as they often work with taxpayers‘ money and have a high level of responsibility towards society.

Presentation of the ISO 26000 and ISO 20400 standards

Two central standards support companies and public institutions in integrating social and environmental responsibility into their business and procurement processes:

ISO 26000 provides comprehensive guidance on the social responsibility of organizations. It covers a wide range of topics, including human rights, labor practices, the environment, fair operating and business practices, consumer concerns, and community involvement and development.
Unlike other ISO standards, ISO 26000 is not a certification standard, but serves as a guide to help organizations integrate CSR into their strategy and daily activities.
The standard emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach in which CSR is not just an add-on, but an integral part of corporate management.

ISO 20400 – Sustainable procurement:

ISO 20400 is an international standard that provides guidelines for the integration of sustainability aspects into the procurement process. It helps organizations to incorporate environmental, social and economic sustainability criteria into their purchasing.
The standard covers all aspects of the procurement process, from needs analysis, tendering and supplier selection to contract design and performance evaluation.
ISO 20400 emphasizes the importance of working with suppliers to develop sustainable solutions and ensure that the entire supply chain meets the specified standards.

Public bodies can take various measures to check and ensure compliance with social standards in their supply chains:

Supplier audits and voluntary commitments:
- Regular audits of suppliers help to verify compliance with the agreed social and environmental standards. Both planned and unannounced audits can be carried out.
- Self-commitments by suppliers, such as the signing of a code of conduct, can also contribute to compliance with CSR criteria. These voluntary commitments should contain clearly formulated expectations and consequences in the event of non-compliance.
Transparent supply chains and reporting:
- Requiring suppliers to regularly report on their social and environmental performance creates transparency and enables continuous monitoring.
- Public institutions can also use digital tools to increase transparency in their supply chains and collect information on the origin of products and conditions along the supply chain.
Integration of CSR criteria in tenders:
- CSR criteria should be clearly defined and communicated at the tendering stage. This can include requirements for fair working conditions, respect for human rights and environmental protection.
- The use of evaluation methods that give greater weight to CSR criteria helps to select responsible suppliers.
Certificates and verification:
- Requiring recognized certificates and verifications, such as SA8000 (social responsibility) or Fair Trade, can be an effective way to ensure compliance with social standards.
- In addition, suppliers can be required to provide regular evidence of compliance with CSR criteria.
Training and awareness-raising:
- Training procurement officers and suppliers is crucial to raise awareness of social and environmental responsibility and to provide the right skills.
- Workshops and information events on CSR topics help to deepen understanding and facilitate the implementation of the standards.

Support from Bruno Wickart in the evaluation of suppliers and the integration of CSR criteria

Bruno Wickart supports public institutions in integrating social and environmental responsibility into their procurement processes and ensuring compliance with CSR criteria along the supply chain. Our services include:

Supplier evaluation and selection:
- We help you select suppliers that meet the highest social and environmental standards. We carry out comprehensive assessments and check compliance with human rights, working conditions and environmental standards.
- Our network of verified and trustworthy suppliers enables you to source products from suppliers that stand out for their exemplary CSR practices.
Development and implementation of CSR criteria:
- We work with you to develop specific CSR criteria that are tailored to your procurement requirements. We integrate these criteria into your tendering and contract processes.
- Our experts support you in implementing these criteria in practice and ensure that they are clearly formulated and enforceable.
Audits and follow-up:
- We organize and accompany audits of your suppliers to check compliance with the CSR criteria. We rely on proven procedures and work closely with independent auditing organizations.
- Our regular audits and reports help you to continuously monitor compliance with social and environmental standards and take action where necessary.
Training courses and workshops:
- Bruno Wickart offers training courses and workshops to raise awareness of CSR among your employees and suppliers. We impart practical knowledge and provide specific recommendations for integrating CSR into the procurement process.
- Our training courses help you to strengthen your skills in the area of sustainable procurement and promote a culture of responsibility in your organization.

Conclusion

Taking responsibility along the entire supply chain is a key aspect of sustainable procurement. Public institutions have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the protection of human rights and the environment by integrating CSR criteria into their procurement processes. With the right support and sound methods, social and environmental standards can be successfully implemented in the supply chain. Bruno Wickart is at your side as a reliable partner to help you put this responsibility into practice. Contact us today to find out more about our consulting and training services. Together we can shape a sustainable and responsible future for your public institution. Source information: https://www.woeb.swiss/de/toolbox