Creating sustainable futures/CSF104/Right tools/Measurement



There are literally hundreds of different eco-labels and certifications that each require different measurements and information. It’s best to be very strategic in determining which are best suited to your needs, and find the best tool for the job. In terms of eco-labels or certifications, it may depend on the perceptions and requirements of your end customer. In terms of measures and analysis, it often pays to start at a high level to work out where you can make the biggest difference or have the most influence before investing in more detailed measurement and analysis.

Some standards, like ISO 14000, are more or less required to gain access to certain markets. Many companies have standard procurement policies with pre-qualification requirements for suppliers that include demonstrating that certain standards, like ISO 14000, have been met. As companies seek to protect their brand and actively prefer working with other organisations that take sustainability seriously, this trend towards more selective supply chain design is rapidly accelerating.

The key point is to make sure that you measure the elements that align with delivering the strategy, towards the vision of success, in the system you’re operating in. So choosing the right indicators and tools is key.