An innovative, no-cost online tool is streamlining the process of assessing and enhancing businesses and supply chain sustainability.
Meet Docket, the toolbox for sustainable supply chains, has garnered over 7,000 users since its launch in February 2023, thanks to the Sustainable Business Network (SBN).
James Griffin, SBN’s General Manager of Projects, said that there had been an enthusiastic response from businesses eager to gauge their sustainability performance and elevate their standards.
One such business is Sully's, a boutique fashion store in Wellington operated by Hannah Sullivan. Hannah emphasised the significance of sustainability in her business, sharing that she had become more mindful of the sustainable journey daily.
She explained how the toolbox has ignited conversations about sourcing and the environmental impact of products, inspiring her to foster sustainable practices within and throughout her store.
Docket's recent enhancements, informed by user feedback, have made it even more user-friendly, catering to suppliers and buyers. Its primary tool, a set of Starter Q and
As for suppliers, it empowers businesses to assess six critical aspects of sustainability:
- Ensuring the well-being and safety of workers.
- Upholding workers' rights.
- Combating modern slavery.
- Reducing carbon emissions.
- Minimising waste.
- Promoting nature regeneration.
Griffin said it was important for businesses to understand their inner workings as a business and throughout their supply chain, as suggested by the name ‘Docket’. The tool provides checklists for suppliers to track their progress and document ideas, plans, and achievements.
In addition, Docket offers procurers ten essential sustainability questions to ask businesses within their supply chains. Like all other Docket resources, these questions are freely available for download and use.
Griffin underscored the ease of sharing Docket with business associates, emphasising the numerous benefits of enhancing business and supply chain sustainability. These advantages include time and cost savings, a competitive edge, and a reduced environmental footprint.
Docket is a collaborative effort led by the Sustainable Business Network. It involves partnerships with MAS, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, the Ministry of Environment, the Wellington City Council, the Westpac NZ Government Innovation Fund, and WorkSafe. Docket is available for free download and use.
