Sustainable Procurement, measuring is improving
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Measuring sustainable procurement is improving
“Being transparent about sustainability efforts and results is key to sustainable procurement. The Global Sustainable Enterprise System provides a platform for this, argues expert Karin van IJsselmuide. Univé and Air Traffic Control Netherlands have already begun working with it.”
Sustainable procurement is purchasing with the most positive effects for society, the economy, and the environment that are possible throughout the entire lifecycle of a product (ISO 20400-2017). This term for sustainable purchasing is used internationally by the business sector and is equivalent to the term ‘socially responsible commissioning and purchasing’ invoked by the government. Procurement organizations can have a significant impact on achieving sustainable goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, many laws and legislative proposals are coming towards organizations, such as CSRD, IMVO, and CO2 reporting. This necessitates accountability. There are plenty of reasons to get started, but it must be done in a clear, correct, and verifiable manner.
5 Ground Rules from ACM
If we have learned anything from the recent studies and the sanctions subsequently imposed by the Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM), it is that some companies make a habit of presenting themselves as more sustainable than they actually are. Consequently, sustainability has primarily become a marketing tool, a practice often referred to as greenwashing. The five ground rules issued by ACM provide guidance for both the marketing and procurement departments:
1. Clearly communicate what sustainability benefit the product offers.
2. Support sustainability claims with facts and keep them up to date.
3. Comparisons with other products, services, or companies must be fair.
4. Be honest and specific about sustainability efforts.
5. Ensure that visual claims and certifications are primarily helpful and not confusing for consumers.
Being transparent and honest about sustainability efforts and results is key to sustainable procurement. Merely having an ambition, a sustainable procurement policy, or an action plan to start working on sustainability as a procurement function is not enough. It is therefore necessary to begin measuring sustainable procurement activities and substantiate them with facts. But where do you start? How do you ensure that the procurement process, suppliers, and the products they provide are not based on opportunistic sustainability claims? For this, we employ the process of: tell me, show me, and prove me.
Tell Me, Show Me, and Prove Me
Tell me: start by having suppliers explain how sustainable they already are on themes such as circularity, CO2 reduction, and the health and safety of employees. Show me: if there is insight into the sustainability of your suppliers, you can then ask whether they can substantiate their claims and provided information with facts or evidence. Prove me: in cases of doubt about the provided facts, or if the stakes for your organization are very high, you can have the provided evidence checked by an independent expert or a certifying institution such as KIWA or Control Union.
Sustainability Certifications
Since organizations often do not have all the knowledge in-house or the ability to manage and verify provided sustainability data, it is beneficial that sustainability certifications exist.
But how do you know if such a certification is recognized and validated? Gaining this knowledge, creating your own questionnaires, and subsequently organizing verification is often not an option for companies. Furthermore, it is undesirable for the market because all their clients would then request slightly different information on various themes.
Unique Standard
If the organization decides to request, analyze, and verify data from suppliers, it is crucial to carefully consider what the strategy will be in advance. And also think about the tool you will need for this. There are already various tools available in the market that can assist with this, such as the Global Sustainable Enterprise System (GSES). This is a platform where one can see how each supplier deals with various sustainability themes. GSES operates with a unique overarching standard for measuring the sustainability of organizations and products. This standard recognizes over five hundred existing sustainability standards, certifications, and eco-labels.
UNIVÉ Group
Willem de Jager, strategic procurement advisor at Univé Group: “In the context of CSR, the Univé Group focuses on all Sustainable Development Goals with extra emphasis on ‘good health and well-being,’ ‘climate action,’ and ‘partnerships.’ With the sustainability ambitions of the Univé Group, Procurement and Contract Management can and must start making an impact in the supply chain. What applies to black figures also applies to green figures: it begins with reliable data. In terms of sustainability, we are actually barely aware of what our partners are doing in this area, and as a result, we cannot produce reliable reports. We have begun placing ourselves on the sustainability platform GSES. At the same time, we have asked our suppliers to do the same and to be transparent there, just as we are. This is primarily because we want to know if a sustainable relationship with them also means a collaboration that has positive effects in terms of sustainability, but also to provide suppliers with a platform where they can show where they stand and what ambitions they have. The scores of a supplier in GSES are also accessible to other clients.
As a result, this system is a powerful tool for tender procedures. The verified data in GSES reduce the chances of greenwashing and ensure that we can quickly engage in discussions about the content of the collaboration. We can also provide reliable reports about where we stand. In the coming period, we want to work together with suppliers to review the scores and inventory where we see opportunities for further sustainability.
Air traffic control Netherlands
Eric Sessink, manager contracting at Air Traffic Control Netherlands (LVNL): “LVNL ensures safe handling of air traffic in the Dutch civil airspace. Based on three pillars (climate, circular economy, and healthy & social), goals have been set to achieve a sustainable LVNL. Socially responsible contracting and purchasing is an essential tool to accelerate sustainability. In order to use sustainability distinctly in tenders, we have sought a tool capable of objectively assessing suppliers’ sustainability claims. The tool must be accessible to both Dutch and foreign suppliers and have a robust certification process with a large supplier database. Based on this, GSES emerged as the best option. With this tool, we can see how our suppliers are performing in terms of sustainability. It also provides information that allows us to engage in discussions to improve and monitor this process. Another advantage of the GSES platform is that a supplier can easily be compared to the average of the relevant industry. The sustainability objectives of LVNL are incorporated into tenders to challenge suppliers to contribute as well. Additionally, last year we invited the top 200 of our current suppliers to register on the GSES platform focusing on the pillars of Corporate Social Responsibility, CO2 Reduction, and Circular Economy. LVNL itself fills out the assessment. This allows the outside world to see what efforts we are making in this area.
Out of the approximately 200 current suppliers, 31 suppliers have voluntarily registered so far. Of these, eleven suppliers have been validated by GSES for their sustainability performance. From 2023 onwards, increasingly ambitious criteria will be included in each tender. Currently, registration on GSES for our suppliers remains optional regarding the three pillars. However, depending on how the market develops, we will include the industry average as a minimum requirement in tenders as a criterion for awarding contracts.”
Image: GSES
Strategic procurement advisor Willem de Jager of Univé Group (see page 39) and contracting manager Eric Sessink of LVNL (see here to the left) share their experiences with GSES.
Action Plan
A sustainability measurement is just the beginning. Of course, it is good to know where each supplier stands, but only then does the embedding of the real strategy begin. It is advisable to create an action plan. This way, you can start discussions with suppliers about the contribution of sustainability to your own objectives and/or include ambitions in contracts.
Insight
To really make progress in this area, insight is essential. The requirements that sustainable procurement places on organizations and individuals will grow along with future legislation and market developments. Therefore, sustainability will always be a concern for the procurement discipline in the future.
GSES leads the way with Nature Impact Rating to foster a sustainable food future!
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GSES leads the way with Nature Impact Rating to foster a sustainable food future!
Transforming Taste: GSES’s Innovative Approach to Eco-Conscious Food Choices
Did you know? The food industry, a significant environmental player, leaves an indelible mark through deforestation, water depletion, and greenhouse gas emissions. The journey from farm to fork carries profound consequences. Recognising the urgency of these challenges, GSES – Global Sustainable Enterprise System introduces the revolutionary Nature Impact Rating, tailored exclusively for food products.
Savouring Positive Change:
Consumers and businesses now have the power to make choices that not only tantalise taste buds but also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. Let’s savour the flavour of positive change!
Empower Your Sustainability Journey:
Embark on a transformative sustainability journey and make eco-conscious food choices with GSES. Ready to explore? Visit our platform or reach out to us for more details. Together, let’s make a positive impact on the planet, one food product at a time.
Join Us in Shaping a Sustainable Tomorrow:
GSES – Global Sustainable Enterprise System is committed to pioneering sustainability solutions for industries worldwide. Join us in shaping a future where every food choice contributes to a healthier planet.
Learn more at GSES
GSES unveils Nature Impact Rating to transform cosmetic industry’s environmental footprint!
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GSES unveils Nature Impact Rating to transform cosmetic industry’s environmental footprint!
Revolutionising Beauty: A Greener Path with GSES’s Sustainability Initiative
The cosmetic industry, known for its allure, faces critical sustainability challenges, including excessive packaging, chemical pollution, and resource-intensive production practices. Acknowledging the imperative for change, GSES – Global Sustainable Enterprise System introduces the groundbreaking Nature Impact Rating tailored specifically for cosmetic products.
Choose Beauty, Choose Sustainability:
Now, beauty enthusiasts and brands have the power to select products that not only elevate glamour but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable planet. GSES invites you to redefine beauty with a touch of eco-conscious elegance!
Embark on a Sustainable Beauty Journey:
Join us on a transformative beauty journey that aligns aesthetics with environmental responsibility. With the Nature Impact Rating, GSES empowers you to make conscious choices for a beautiful and eco-friendly future.
Ready to Explore? Visit Our Platform!
Embark on your sustainable beauty journey by visiting our platform today. Discover the Nature Impact Rating and how it’s reshaping the cosmetic industry for the better.
Contact Us for More Details:
For further information and details on our Nature Impact Rating initiative, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Let’s collectively make choices that transcend beauty and contribute to a sustainable world.
Let’s Make Conscious Choices for a Beautiful Tomorrow!
GSES – Global Sustainable Enterprise System is dedicated to pioneering sustainability solutions for industries worldwide. Join us in shaping a future where beauty and eco-consciousness harmoniously coexist.
Learn more at GSES
GSES and Climate Cleanup launch partnership to measure and mitigate scope 0 emissions.
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GSES and Climate Cleanup launch partnership to measure and mitigate Scope 0 emissions
Many people are familiar with scopes 1, 2, and 3. Scope 1 is the direct CO2 emissions from your company, Scope 2 is indirect emissions, for example, from the energy you purchase. And Scope 3 relates to the emissions generated within the supply chain. However, there is now increasing attention on Scope 0, which refers to the CO2 that the company has emitted in the past. Very few companies currently incorporate this into their strategy.
Oncra offers a solution to the many problems that plague the market for so-called CO2 compensation. The biggest issue is that in this market, compensation credits, or offsets, are offered that do little or nothing to remove CO2. Many credits are issued for not cutting down forests. The Oncra methodology addresses this by only certifying onsets: real, physical capture of CO2 in plants, soils, and materials. This capture is directly measurable, making onsets much more reliable.
The online measurement system of GSES (Global Sustainable Enterprise System) now integrates Scope 0 into its dashboarding to measure organizations and suppliers. Organizations with a net-zero ambition can achieve this with the Scope 0 calculation and then onset, which means paying farmers, builders, or seaweed growers to actually remove CO2 from the atmosphere.
Onsets are certified through the Oncra certification scheme and audited via Audit Independer by independent Certification Bodies. Oncra stands for Open Natural Carbon Removal Accounting and was developed by Climate Cleanup in collaboration with a bank and two provinces, according to the new rules of the European Commission for carbon removal certification.
About the Climate Cleanup Foundation
The goal of the Climate Cleanup Foundation is to remove enough CO2 to solve the climate problem. Climate Cleanup is the initiator of Oncra, which has already mapped 180,000 tons of additional CO2 capture since its launch at the last UN climate conference. This way, organizations can onset instead of offset.
About the GSES System
The Global Sustainable Enterprise System (GSES) is a SaaS platform for measuring the sustainability of organizations, supply chains, assets, products, and events across all aspects of sustainability. GSES operates in more than 110 countries and in over 70 industries, making sustainability accessible and transparent. GSES is used by organizations such as Air Traffic Control Netherlands (LVNL), Schiphol, ABN Amro, Xenos, Wibra, the Johan Cruijff ArenA, Univé, Boon Edam, and many others. Discover more about the Global Sustainable Enterprise System at www.gses-system.com.
GSES Unveils Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) Module for GreenTech Innovations!
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GSES Unveils Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) Module for GreenTech Innovations!
In a significant move towards advancing sustainability in the GreenTech sector, Global Sustainable Enterprise System (GSES) introduces the groundbreaking Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) Module. This innovative tool is meticulously designed to measure and verify the environmental claims of cutting-edge technologies, offering a pathway to elevate their credibility through third-party validation.
GSES ETV module highlights
1. Comprehensive technology ESG dashboard:
GSES proudly presents the Technology ESG Dashboard, a tailored solution for technology users. This comprehensive tool provides users with an in-depth view of validated technology claims, ETV verification reports, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) scores on an organisational level.
2. Global standard compliance with ISO 14034:
GSES employs the Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) ISO 14034 standard to assess technologies. Recognised as the sole global standard for measuring green technologies, ISO 14034:2016 Environmental Management sets the benchmark for ETV processes. Published by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) in November 2016, this standard ensures a quality-assured process for independent confirmation of environmental technology performance through objective evidence.
Key objectives of ETV:
Supporting Informed Decision-Making:
The ETV process supports stakeholders in making well-informed decisions by providing accurate and reliable data on technology performance.
Enhancing demonstration, deployment, and market acceptance:
ETV plays a crucial role in enhancing the demonstration, deployment, and market acceptance of technology-based solutions. By offering third-party validation, it instills confidence in users and stakeholders.
GSES is committed to fostering transparency and credibility in the GreenTech sector, and the introduction of the ETV Module marks a significant step towards achieving these goals. As sustainability becomes an increasingly integral part of innovation, GSES continues to lead the way in providing robust frameworks and tools to propel the GreenTech industry forward.
For more information about the GSES ETV Module, please visit GSES
The ASEAN sustainability scene unveiled by master students
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The ASEAN sustainability scene unveiled by master students
Brace yourselves for a captivating read! Seven master students from the Netherlands recently delved into the heart of the ASEAN sustainability landscape.
Our proud collaboration with the Netherlands-Asia Honours Summer School (NAHSS) program paved the way for over 100 students to soak in the vibrant cultures of Malaysia and Singapore throughout the scorching summer of 2023. Now, these students have crafted an extensive paper that dissects the pressing need for ESG platforms in the ASEAN region.
Get ready to embark on a journey where academia meets real-world impact. This isn’t just another publication – it’s an insider’s look into how the ASEAN sustainability market is evolving, and trust us, you won’t want to miss this! Click, read, and join the conversation shaping the future of sustainability in the ASEAN region. Let’s make waves together!
Read the paper here: TheASEAN Sustainability Assessment Market A Case Study on Malaysia and Singapore.docx
Highlights from the GSES and Johan Cruijff ArenA sustainability marathon
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Highlights from the GSES and Johan Cruijff ArenA sustainability marathon
GSES (Global Sustainable Enterprise System) recently joined forces with the Johan Cruijff ArenA to host an inspiring Sustainability Marathon. The event brought together thought leaders, industry experts, and sustainability enthusiasts to explore innovative solutions and share insights on creating a more sustainable future.
Key Highlights:
- Net Positive Ambition: Tanja Dik, CEO of the Johan Cruijff ArenA, shared their roadmap journey towards becoming net positive by 2030. The integration of sustainability standards with GSES marked a significant step towards achieving their goals.
- SDG Advocacy: Ruud Koornstra, SDG 7 Coordinator for the Kingdom of The Netherlands, ignited the crowd with enthusiasm, encouraging collective action for a greener future. His motivational speech resonated with the audience and set a positive tone for the event.
- GSES Platform Enhancements: Kelly Ruigrok, CEO & Founder of GSES, unveiled new features within the platform, celebrating the achievements of the past year. Notably, the Asset module was launched by Sol Agüero, allowing measurements for buildings, batteries, and technologies.
- Asset Module: Sol Aguero, project manager at GSES launched the Asset module on the GSES platform enabling measurements for buildings, batteries and technologies.
- Nature Impact Rating: Shivalika Madgulkar, Product Manager at GSES, introduced the Nature Impact Rating for Food and Cosmetics. This scalable solution enables retailers to measure circular, environmental, and health footprints of products in a comprehensive manner.
- SDG Region Dashboards: Oriane Wiser, EU Program Manager at GSES, shed light on SDG region dashboards. The EU Project SD-WISHEES PROJECT and the impact calculation of the Johan Cruijff ArenA on Gemeente Amsterdam were highlighted, emphasizing the commitment to sustainable development.
Community Impact: The Sustainability Marathon showcased tangible results, including the repurposing of 148 old Nissan Leaf batteries in a circular arrangement. The impact of initiatives, such as the local biodigester, was made visible through the Data for good platform’s upcoming SDG Impact Dashboard, demonstrating societal benefits in various aspects.
Closing Thoughts: The event left attendees feeling optimistic and energised, thanks to Ruud Koornstra’s takeaways emphasizing the importance of ambition, actions, and measurement in achieving sustainable goals. GSES expresses gratitude for the warm welcome and looks forward to future collaborations with the dynamic team at the Johan Cruijff ArenA.
Conclusion: GSES remains at the forefront of sustainable enterprise solutions, driving positive change in collaboration with visionary partners like the Johan Cruijff ArenA. The Sustainability Marathon served as a platform to celebrate achievements, share insights, and inspire collective efforts towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
For more information visit: GSES
Water Europe: A Decade-Long Evolution into a Multistakeholder Powerhouse!
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Water Europe: A Decade-Long Evolution into a Multistakeholder Powerhouse!
From ETP to Multi-stakeholder Platform – The Remarkable Journey Unveiled
In a transformative journey initiated by the European Commission in 2004, Water Europe (WE) was born as the European Technology Platform (ETP) for water, initially known as WssTP. This status was renewed by the EC in 2013 as part of its ETP2020 strategy, solidifying WE’s role as a driving force in European water innovation.
A Decade of Evolution:
Founded on the principles of collaboration and innovation, WE underwent a pivotal shift in 2007. The platform transformed into a member-based multi-stakeholder organisation under Belgian law. Since then, WE’s membership and activities have witnessed continuous growth, aligning with its ambitious vision to represent the entire water value-chain.
European Water-Smart Society:
WE’s evolution mirrors its commitment to shaping a European Water-Smart Society. Through strategic initiatives and collaborative endeavours, the organisation has become a dynamic force fostering innovation and sustainability across the water sector.
GSES Joins Water Europe 2023:
Adding to the vibrant tapestry of stakeholders, GSES – Global Sustainable Enterprise System proudly announces its membership in Water Europe 2023. This collaboration marks a significant step towards GSES’s commitment to actively contribute to the advancements in the water sector.
A Proud Member of Water Europe:
GSES is a proud member of Water Europe, the esteemed ranks of organisations committed to a water-smart future. The platform’s involvement in Water Europe underscores its dedication to driving positive change and sustainability on a European scale.
Learn More:
Explore the collaborative efforts of GSES and Water Europe for a water-smart future. Learn more about GSES’s commitment to sustainability at GSES!
GSES Teams Up with Society of Sustainability and Green Materials (SSGM) to Create the UAE's Largest Sustainability Database!
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GSES Teams Up with Society of Sustainability and Green Materials (SSGM) to Create the UAE's Largest Sustainability Database!
GSES and SSGM Forge a Powerful Partnership for Sustainability in the UAE
GSES – Global Sustainable Enterprise System is delighted to announce an exciting collaboration with the Society of Sustainability and Green Materials (SSGM), marking a significant milestone in shaping a sustainable future in the United Arab Emirates.
Building the Largest Sustainability Database:
Together, GSES and SSGM are spearheading the establishment of the most extensive sustainability database in the UAE. This pioneering initiative will capture essential sustainability data related to brands, building materials, and products, fostering a comprehensive understanding of environmental impacts.
Welcoming Esteemed Gold Members:
In light of this groundbreaking partnership, GSES proudly welcomes the following esteemed entities as new Gold Members:
1. Abu Dhabi Ports
2. ALDAR
3. ROCKWOOL Group
4. CEMEX
5. Majid Al Futtaim
6. Emirates Steel Arkan
Commitment to Sustainability Excellence:
These industry leaders have joined as Gold Members, leveraging the GSES platform to measure and enhance their sustainability practices across the board – from internal operations to supply chain management and the products they use and produce.
A Green Future Unveils:
GSES and SSGM believe that this collaborative effort will set new benchmarks for sustainability in the region, providing a platform for organisations to align with global best practices.
Stay Tuned for Progress:
As this partnership unfolds, stay tuned for updates on the remarkable strides these organisations make in their sustainability journeys. GSES remains committed to driving positive change through innovation and collaboration.
Explore how GSES is transforming sustainability practices globally at GSES!
GSES Ambassador and SDG Coordinator Ruud Koornstra Shares Insights on COP28 UAE Negotiations!
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GSES Ambassador and SDG Coordinator Ruud Koornstra Shares Insights on COP28 UAE Negotiations!
COP28 UAE Blue Zone Report: A Glimpse Behind the Scenes
Amidst the intensity of COP28 negotiations in the UAE, as the summit reaches its climax, Ruud Koornstra, SDG 7 Coordinator, GSES Ambassador, and delegate of the Netherlands, shares an exclusive update.
Intense Commitment and Strides Forward:
“Our Dutch negotiators are working tirelessly, making great strides in these crucial discussions. Just hold on for the last mile, ladies and gentlemen,” says Koornstra. The dedication is evident as he personally covers an average of 20,000 steps per day, shuttling between the blue and green zones.
Showcasing Dutch Innovation:
Beyond the negotiations, Koornstra emphasises the platform created for Dutch breakthrough technologies and business concepts of new SMEs. COP28 serves as a global stage, providing international visibility and follow-up opportunities for innovative solutions.
A Global Effort for Sustainable Future:
GSES is proud to have Ruud Koornstra as our ambassador, representing sustainability on a global scale. Follow the behind-the-scenes journey of Dutch negotiators and witness the commitment to shaping a sustainable future.
Stay Tuned for Updates:
As COP28 unfolds, stay tuned for more updates on the Kingdom of the Netherlands’ impactful contributions to global sustainability. Learn more about GSES’s advocacy for positive change at GSES
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