First published by business.govt.nz
Docket, the sustainable supply chain toolbox, has had more than 7,000 users since it was launched in February 2023 by the Sustainable Business Network (SBN).
“There’s been a great response from businesses keen to see how they’re doing when it comes to sustainability and wanting to learn how to up their game,” says James Griffin, SBN’s General Manager Projects.
One of those businesses is Wellington boutique fashion store Sully’s, run by Hannah Sullivan. Hannah says sustainability is important to her business.
“I’m becoming more mindful every day of the sustainable journey. Using the toolbox has brought up conversations like how sometimes it’s easy to buy an item and never think about where those items came from. Or, a lot of people don’t think about the lengths a business has gone to make sure they’re thinking of their carbon footprint.
“It’s even as simple as having a conversation with your suppliers and brands, and really learning about each step in the process. Docket has really helped encourage me to do that. I want to sell products that help the green journey, and maybe inspire others to do the same.”
Six key areas of sustainability
James from SBN says recent updates to Docket have been made in response to user feedback.
“Now it’s even easier for businesses to find the info they need, whether they’re a supplier or buyer. We know businesses have a lot of pressures. Our aim is to simplify sustainability for them.”
One of the main Docket tools is a set of Starter Q&As for Suppliers that helps a business review six key areas of sustainability:
• keeping workers healthy & safe
• upholding workers’ rights
• eliminating modern slavery
• reducing carbon emissions
• reducing waste
• nature regeneration
“As the Docket name suggests, it’s important to know the contents of your business and supply chain,” says James.
There are checklists so suppliers can record how they’re doing along with their ideas, plans and achievements.
There are also 10 essential sustainability questions procurers should be asking businesses in their supply chains. Like all Docket tools, they’re free to download and use.
“We’ve also made it easy to share Docket with the businesses you deal with. There are many benefits to improving the sustainability of your business and supply chain.
“They include saving time and money, gaining a competitive edge and reducing your environmental footprint.”
Docket is a collaboration led by the Sustainable Business Network with MAS, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Ministry for the Environment, Wellington City Council, Westpac NZ Government Innovation Fund and WorkSafe.
Photo: Hannah Sullivan, founder of Wellington boutique fashion store Sully’s. Credit, Wellington City Council.