If any suppliers needed more evidence of the importance of sustainability in the sourcing decisions of huge consumer goods companies, they certainly got it in spades over the last several weeks.
General Mills’ executive vice president of supply chain operations John Church announced a new corporate climate policy to track and reduce GHG emissions as part of its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable agriculture. In his blog post, he said this new policy requires key ingredient suppliers to demonstrate environment, social and economic improvements in their supply chains.
Shortly afterwards, Coca-Cola increased its investments in Africa to support, among other activities, key sustainability initiatives and programs there. The company also signed a letter of intent to launch Source Africa, an initiative to secure more consistent, sustainable local ingredient sourcing for its products, in partnership with the New Alliance for Food Security and Nutrition and Grow Africa.
On the heels of Coca-Cola, Tata Global Beverages announced their plans for 100% sustainable sourcing by 2020. A major focus of its sustainable sourcing strategy is sustainable agricultural practices, including reducing the use of Plant Protection Products in the tea industry.
Suppliers, take note.
Sourcing Guy 