Sustainable Supply Chain Alliance Framework

This document provides a framework of environmental practices that are considered core to strong environmental sustainability management. The information is presented in a table that is intended to provide Suppliers and Utilities with a means to gauge the level of maturity of their corporate and supplier environmental sustainability programs, and to help shape continuous improvement goals for organizations seeking to advance their programs. The current version of this document reflects a broad, general scope of sustainability considerations. Future versions of the framework may include additional insights, proven practices and additional resources.

The categories and attributes presented in the table are modeled on the type of Plan-Do-Check-Act framework within Internal Organization for Standardization (ISO) management system standards, and best practices from management systems across industry sectors. The framework was compiled by sustainability and supply chain subject matter experts from the Electric Utility Industry Sustainable Supply Chain Alliance (Alliance) member organizations and other professional organizations in the field of sustainability and supply chain management.

The practices adopted will vary by organization based on the organization's priorities, the cost and time to implement an initiative and the value to the business, among other variables. In addition, it is likely that a company may not achieve all criteria in a single maturity level due to trade-offs, levels of impact, appropriateness, etc. Finally, the company’s size and availability of resources should be considered when determining which practices to pursue and how quickly.

The question is often asked, "What is the benefit of a sustainable supply chain program?" Here are a few key benefits beyond the obvious “reduced environmental impact” that could be considered when assessing the value proposition of your program.