Sustainable action by companies is currently more important than ever. Cooperations between companies and suppliers are concluded in the global economic cycle under the prerequisite and criteria of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Wikus-Sägenfabrik Wilhelm H. Kullmann GmbH Co KG also feels committed to these issues and has for the first time submitted itself to the globally recognised EcoVadis rating.
Already in May 2021, Wikus was awarded the bronze label of the EcoVadis sustainability platform at the first attempt. The award was preceded by a comprehensive evaluation of all implemented corporate social responsibility measures and strategies.
An assessment of business and procurement activities, with particular reference to the ethical code of conduct and environmental activities, labour and human rights, was also part of the review. In addition, Wikus’ CSR performance was compared with benchmarks from the industry, in which the company performed successfully.
Sustainability certification is becoming increasingly important worldwide
The requirements in terms of sustainable production and procurement are increasing rapidly. This is also shown by a study conducted by the German supply chain consultancy Miebach Consulting in 2020: the companies surveyed stated that they intend to double the number of sustainable initiatives already implemented in their companies over the next few years.
And Wikus already registers: Measures and processes of the own CSR activities and those of business partners have to be proven by certification, so that a business relationship can be established at all. For globally operating customers, suppliers and stakeholders, the EcoVadis rating has therefore become an important indicator for assessing the sustainability, environmental and social practices of companies in their supply chain.
“We would like to send an important signal to our customers, suppliers and the public with the actively implemented certification by EcoVadis,” says Dr. techn. Jörg H. Kullmann, Chairman of the Management Board of Wikus. “Through our commitment, we can also help our partners achieve their own sustainability goals.”
A CSR-compliant supply chain offers market advantages and secures jobs
EcoVadis not only makes it possible to have one’s own company evaluated with regard to CSR performance. It also allows the procurement teams of the audited companies to use the EcoVadis databases to assess the sustainability performance of partners and suppliers.
In view of the “Draft Law on Corporate Due Diligence in Supply Chains”, which will come into force in Germany from 2023, and the associated obligation to assume responsibility for the observance of human rights and environmental protection in the supply chain, a review of suppliers is becoming increasingly important.
The effort is worthwhile: If the requirements are implemented correctly by the networked companies, the number of disruptions in the supply chain is reduced – and costs are minimized through collaborative measures. Ultimately, more sustainable action enables the development of image and market advantages and increases growth and employment.
“Sustainability secures jobs!”. Michael Möller, Managing Director and Head of Corporate Group and Sales at Wikus, is convinced of this and adds: “The certification attests to something that we have always placed great value on and that positions us for the future. It shows that our internal processes meet social and ethical standards and that Wikus is a reliable partner within the global supply chain.”
The EcoVadis rating not only assesses the relevant strengths and the CSR measures already taken within the company, but also identifies optimisation opportunities and strategies. Wikus’ goal: to seize this opportunity and derive and implement ways to continuously improve CSR performance, motivate suppliers to implement, and aim for an even better award in the second attempt in 2022.
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