What is a social & sustainable procurement framework and policy for business and why is it important?
#Socialprocurement provides an opportunity for communities to be strengthened by way of generating social value through buyers extensive supply chain. State governments and industry are increasingly investing into equipping the social enterprise sector with the resources to play an active role in Australia’s infrastructure and construction projects and other procurement activities where Government funding mandates a social procurement framework or local content or local jobs policies.
A social and sustainable procurement framework and policy can help businesses make responsible purchasing decisions that benefit society, the environment, and the economy.
Here are some key components that can be included in such a framework:
Stakeholder engagement: The first step in creating a social and sustainable procurement policy is to engage with stakeholders, including suppliers, customers, employees, and community members. This will help to identify the most pressing social and environmental issues that need to be addressed in procurement.
Ethical sourcing: A social and sustainable procurement policy should prioritise ethical sourcing, including the use of fair-trade products, products that are free from exploitation or human rights violations, and products that are sourced from environmentally responsible suppliers.
Environmental sustainability: The policy should also prioritise environmental sustainability by setting targets for reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and minimising the carbon footprint of the procurement process.
Social impact: The policy should aim to have a positive social impact, such as supporting local businesses and communities, creating employment opportunities, and promoting diversity and inclusion.
Supply chain transparency: The policy should require suppliers to provide transparent information about their practices and policies, including labour standards, environmental impact, and supply chain traceability.
Evaluation and reporting: The policy should establish a system for evaluating suppliers and tracking progress toward sustainability goals. Regular reporting on the impact of procurement decisions can help to demonstrate the business's commitment to sustainability and accountability to stakeholders.
Continuous improvement: The policy should be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in the business environment, emerging sustainability issues, and stakeholder feedback.
By implementing a social and sustainable procurement framework and policy, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to responsible practices and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Example: Victorian Government Social Procurement Framework
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Victorian Government Social Procurement Approach
https://www.buyingfor.vic.gov.au/social-procurement-victorian-government-approach