Use this checklist to evaluate your supplier's sustainability practices. By focusing on key sustainability criteria such as material sourcing transparency and product life cycle management, uncover the strategies for identifying suppliers that will support you in achieving your sustainability objectives.

Sourcing sustainable suppliers isn't just a noble aspiration; it's a strategic imperative. With 80% of greenhouse gas emissions originating from the supply chain, the importance of supplier selection can’t be overstated.1 Every procurement decision holds the potential to either advance or hinder progress toward achieving your corporate sustainability goals.

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Enter the sustainability supplier evaluation checklist — a tool designed to streamline the process of assessing a supplier's sustainability practices. 

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From material sourcing transparency to recycling processes and energy efficiency measures to product life cycle management, each criterion serves as a litmus test, probing the depth of a supplier's dedication to sustainability.

By rigorously assessing suppliers against these key sustainability criteria, organizations can pinpoint partners who not only fulfill their operational needs, but also align with their broader sustainability goals.

Utilize the checklist to make well-informed decisions, foster strategic partnerships, and navigate toward a greener, more sustainable future with clarity and purpose.

Material Sourcing Transparency

Does the supplier provide clear information about where their materials are sourced from?

Are there any third-party certifications indicating sustainable sourcing?

How does the supplier address quality control and assurance during production?

Recycling Process Transparency

Is the supplier transparent about their recycling processes?

Do they have verifiable information regarding the environmental friendliness of their recycling practices?

Can they provide data or reports about their recycling efficiency?

Take Back Recycling Program

Does the supplier offer a program to take back products for reuse and recycling?

What happens to the products once they are returned for recycling?

Can customers track the progress of their recycled products within the program?

Energy Efficiency and Carbon Footprint

Does the supplier monitor and manage energy consumption in their production processes?

What measures are taken to promote energy efficiency and waste reduction?

How does the supplier mitigate environmental impact beyond carbon footprint reduction?

Product Lifecycle Management

Are products designed with end-of-life considerations (e.g., ease of disassembly, recyclability)?

What measures does the supplier take to prolong the product lifespan, where necessary?

Sustainability Goals and Achievements

Does the supplier have publicly stated sustainability goals?

Can they provide evidence or case studies of their progress toward these goals?

Have they received any awards or recognitions for their sustainability efforts?

Partnerships and Collaboration

Is the supplier involved in any partnerships or collaborations to improve sustainability in their industry?

Are they willing to work with clients to achieve their specific sustainability objectives?

Innovation and Continuous Improvement

Can the supplier demonstrate an ongoing commitment to innovation in sustainability?

Do they invest in research and development to find new sustainable materials or methods?

Regulatory Compliance

Is the supplier compliant with all relevant environmental regulations and laws?

Have there been any large-scale, recent issues or violations from the supplier?

Client Testimonials and References

Are there testimonials or references from other clients regarding the supplier's sustainability practices?

Can the supplier provide contact information for references willing to discuss their sustainability contributions?

Use this checklist as a practical roadmap to integrate environmental responsibility into your procurement processes. Keep it saved or download it to help you navigate supplier selection with confidence, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Sustainable Supplier Evaluation Checklist

Streamline your procurement process with this sustainable supplier checklist – download it or save it as your go-to resource.

1. How to select (and develop) sustainable suppliers. (2024 January). Sievo blog. https://sievo.com/blog/sustainable-supplier-selection-devolopment-sustainability-series-part.-4