In today's world, sustainability is paramount. It’s no longer just a buzzword, but a core value that organizations and individuals alike have embraced. Firms commonly use the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework to evaluate sustainability.

A best governance practice that sustainability-oriented global mobility leaders can leverage is joining forces with like-minded partners. When your goal is to foster business relationships with suppliers and vendors committed to sustainability, seek out organizations that:

• Manufacture and/or choose sustainable products and services.
• Support fair labor practices.
• Offer eco-friendly relocation services.

From there, aligning your global mobility program with a greener future becomes easier.

Seek out organizations that provide sustainable products and services

When selecting suppliers for global mobility programs, it’s crucial to prioritize those who demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. Look for suppliers that hold certifications or awards, which shows compliance with and commitment to environmental management standards. Additionally, explore suppliers that have implemented sustainable practices, including minimizing waste, reducing energy consumption, and implementing recycling programs. PODS, for instance, offers portable containers that transport and store goods for various sustainable initiatives, including recycling and donation programs. Utilizing PODS portable containers for on-site storage needs can contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions by eliminating the need to travel back and forth to off-site storage locations, a common practice in conventional freight trucking. Additionally, PODS’ off-site storage alternatives serve as an ideal wasteless solution for businesses intending to downsize their commercial office space.

Another essential partnership aspect to consider is the use of sustainable materials and products. Work with suppliers who prioritize environmentally friendly materials, such as recycled or biodegradable packaging materials, sustainable office supplies, and energy-efficient appliances. By utilizing these materials, we can reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a circular economy.

Seek out organizations that support fair labor practices

Beyond the environmental factor, conscious suppliers also consider their operations’ social impact, including fair labor practices. Choose vendors who prioritize transparency, ethical sourcing, fair wages, and safe working conditions for their employees. Look for certifications like Fair Trade or social responsibility standards that ensure workers are treated fairly throughout the supply chain. Collaborating with socially responsible vendors demonstrates our commitment to ethical business practices and helps drive positive change.

Seek out organizations that offer eco-friendly relocation services

In the realm of global mobility, relocation services play a significant role. When partnering with vendors for relocation assistance and destination services, seek providers that offer eco-friendly options and prioritize internal sustainability objectives. For example, destination services providers that offer a 100% remote workplace and reduce transportation emissions by enabling the right mix of virtual and in-person services (including virtual area tours, virtual home searching, and virtual consultation meetings) for mobile employees drive down your overall greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, opt for providers with carbon offset programs that mitigate the environmental impact of travel associated with the relocation process.

Benefits of sustainable partnerships

Fostering partnerships with suppliers and vendors committed to sustainability offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it helps reduce an organization's environmental footprint by incorporating sustainable practices into their global mobility programs. This action aligns with the expectations of environmentally conscious employees and stakeholders, enhancing your reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking organization.

Secondly, sustainable partnerships contribute to the broader goal of creating a greener economy. By supporting suppliers and vendors who prioritize sustainability, you become catalysts for positive change within the industry. Through our collective efforts, we can drive innovation and influence the adoption of sustainable practices across the entire supply chain.

As global mobility leaders, we have a unique opportunity to infuse ESG into our programs. By actively seeking out suppliers and vendors that manufacture and/or choose sustainable products and services, support fair labor practices, and offer eco-friendly relocation services, we can align global mobility programs with a greener future and help companies meet corporate ESG objectives. Partnerships with ESG-conscious businesses not only benefit the environment and key stakeholders, but also enhance an organization's reputation, engage employees who share these values, and contribute to a more sustainable world. 

Let's join hands with sustainable suppliers and vendors to pave the way for a brighter and greener future in global mobility.

Learn how Relocity is providing destination services and relocation assistance with less environmental impact.