Network of specialists help firms go greener

Dec 5 2007 by Peter McCusker, The Journal

ANETWORK of specialists has been established to encourage companies to become “greener” and increase social awareness in the business community.

Consett company Silverleaf Ltd is one of 18 businesses attached to the new Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Consortium.

Corporate social responsibility is becoming increasingly common in the business community as the green agenda, with its focus on reducing carbon emissions and waste minimisation, impacts more on working life.

The Journal reported recently how the CBI was urging firms to “fundamentally change” their business models to meet the needs of consumers and society.

BT chief executive Ben Verwaayen, who chaired the CBI taskforce said: “We must report transparently our own carbon footprints. This is not just a challenge, it is also a chance to become leaders in a new low carbon economy.”

Silverleaf director Glen Collins said the consortium’s is aimed at encouraging companies to conduct their business in a more socially-aware manner – not just in relation to the environment.

He said: “The aim is to offer organisations a one-stop shop for businesses needing help in the world of responsible business practice.

“We believe that creating a one-stop shop with this number of companies and breadth of expertise is unique.”

Mr Collins said: “We have human resources specialists, accountants health and safety, environmental management, supply chain management and communications.”

CSR Consortium spokesman Mervin Straughan said: “The consortium reflects the breadth of corporate social responsibility issues. There isn’t a week goes by without some business research emerging about the impact of a responsible approach, often warning that businesses that fail to recognise and act on opportunities will be caught out.”

Silverleaf, an independent purchasing and supply chain specialists, brings ethical purchasing to the consortium.

Mr Collins added: “Every company has the right to good purchasing. It’s not only about costs and getting the best deal but about building relationships, managing strategic aims, developing new ideas and improving satisfaction.

“It’s about having a supply chain you can trust. We are able to ensure the purchasing function of a business is conducted in a socially responsible manner. Fairtrade cotton or dye for the printing industry, for example.”