The recognition of the need and benefits of implementing sustainable practices in order to become corporately socially responsible is unquestionable. Organizations and governments alike, both nationally and internationally, are rapidly strategizing and implementing sustainable measures in their workplace and overall operations. Discussions surrounding carbon tax, opportunities for carbon trading and green technology has resulted in the emergence of a green economy.

Sustainable procurement allows organizations to optimize and leverage the ‘green’ movement and address the need to be accountable to demand for socially responsible business practices.

In essence, it is simply a matter of turning good business practices into sustainability practices. There are a number of recognized, accepted and proven values to procuring sustainably. Key among which include:

• Increase demand for accountability for Socially Responsible procurement and supply chain management
• Better working conditions improve quality and reduce turnover
• Increased competitivess, value and opportunities:
• New market opportunities
• Cost savings
• New and efficient delivery methods
• Carbon trading
• Risk mitigation (ethical practices)
• Know your suppliers
• Risk are anticipated, reduced and better managed
• Corporate brand and consumer confident are protected