Sustainable procurement is an integral part of thyssenkrupp nucera®’s sustainability strategy. In an interview, Jana Harbott (SCA Officer) shares insights on how the company is making its procurement processes more sustainable. She also highlights the benefits of sustainable procurement and discusses the challenges and strategies involved in enhancing transparency and sustainability across thyssenkrupp nucera’s supply chains.
The interviewee
Jana Harbott
Supply Chain Act (SCA) Officer at thyssenkrupp nucera
How can our company benefit from sustainable procurement?
To meet stakeholder expectations and our own high standards, it is crucial for us to operate sustainably and
showcase this commitment externally. At the same time, thyssenkrupp nucera may benefit from sustainable supply chains, which help mitigate risks related to social standards and environmental regulations. This approach leads to more reliable supply chains, fostering long-term partnerships and minimizing supply disruptions.
How does sustainable procurement look like at thyssenkrupp nucera? Can you give an example?
To ensure the sustainability of our supply chain, we rely on close collaboration with our suppliers. Our objective is to
cultivate long-term business relationships that foster mutual growth. At the start of each business relationship, suppliers are assessed for sustainability risks. Suppliers identified as high-risk, with whom we aim to establish long-term partnerships, may be required to undergo a sustainability audit. Subsequently, targets are collaboratively established, implemented, and monitored. This approach enables the long-term development of suppliers and enhances the sustainability of the supply chain.
How has procurement at thyssenkrupp nucera changed with a higher focus on sustainability – and how will it change?
A greater focus on sustainability in purchasing requires a comprehensive examination of our supply chains. Ideally, transparency would extend throughout the entire supply chain, all the way to the extraction of raw materials. However, due to the complexity of supply chains, this is a challenging task that can only be addressed through close cooperation with suppliers. Therefore, long-term supplier relationships are key. Sustainability goals, such as reducing a carbon footprint, can only be achieved in collaboration with our suppliers.
We procure raw materials, goods and services globally to manufacture our products. In the intricate web of global supply chains, monitoring and enforcing sustainability standards can be both challenging and time-consuming. It is imperative to have robust processes in place to identify potential risks effectively. Additionally, suppliers must understand the significance of sustainability and engagement to foster a sustainable supply chain
