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Pallet C e nt ral • S e ptem be r- O ctobe r 2 0 25 31 is is where sustainability rating platforms come into play. ese platforms assess and score companies based on their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance, offering a standardized way for stakeholders to evaluate sustainability across industries. Among the most recognized platforms are CDP, Sedex, Morgan Stanley Capital International, and Sustainalytics. Each has its own methodology and focus, but one platform stands out in the manufacturing and logistics sectors for its widespread adoption and supplier- centric approach: EcoVadis. EcoVadis has become a key player in helping companies quantify, benchmark, and communicate their sustainability performance. Its influence is particularly strong in procurement, where buyers increasingly rely on EcoVadis scores to make informed decisions about which suppliers to engage, retain, or phase out. For wooden pallet and container manufacturers, understanding and leveraging EcoVadis can be a game- changer, transforming sustainability from a compliance task into a competitive advantage. What Is EcoVadis? EcoVadis is a global sustainability rating platform designed to help companies assess, improve, and communicate their environmental, social, and ethical performance. It serves as a bridge between suppliers and buyers, offering a standardized way to evaluate sustainability across the supply chain. EcoVadis evaluates companies across four key themes: • Environment: Energy use, emissions, waste management, water conservation, and environmental policies. • Labor & Human Rights: Employee health and safety, working conditions, diversity and inclusion, and human rights protections. • Ethics: Anti-corruption measures, business integrity, and transparency. • Sustainable Procurement: Supplier engagement and responsible sourcing. e assessment process begins with a customized questionnaire, tailored to the company's size, location, and industry (e.g., ISIC 1623 for wood container manufacturing). Companies must submit supporting documentation to validate their claims—such as policies, procedures, certifications, and performance data. Based on this information, EcoVadis assigns a score from 0 to 100, which reflects the maturity and effectiveness of the company's sustainability management system. ese ratings are used by over 1,400 procurement teams worldwide, including major players in manufacturing, retail, logistics, and consumer goods. For suppliers, a strong EcoVadis score can be a passport to new business, helping them meet buyer requirements, stand out in competitive bids, and build long-term partnerships. How EcoVadis Is Influencing Procurement For procurement teams, EcoVadis is more than a score—it's a decision- making tool. Here's how it's reshaping supplier relationships: • Pre-qualification: Buyers use EcoVadis scores to screen suppliers before awarding contracts. • Risk management: Low scores can flag ESG risks, prompting audits or disqualification. • Performance benchmarking: Suppliers are compared against industry peers, encouraging continuous improvement. • Strategic alignment: Companies use EcoVadis to ensure their supply chains align with corporate goals and regulatory requirements. For example, a buyer may require a minimum EcoVadis score of 45/100 to be eligible for tenders. Why This Ma ers For Wooden Pallet And Container Manufacturers Wooden pallets and containers are, by nature, one of the most sustainable packaging solutions available. However, in today's procurement landscape, product sustainability alone is not enough. Platforms like EcoVadis don't just assess what you make; they evaluate how you manage sustainability across your entire organization. is includes your internal policies, employee practices, supplier relationships, and data tracking systems. For example, a company may produce a highly sustainable product, but if it lacks formal environmental policies, doesn't track its energy use, doesn't follow its procedures, or has no documented labor standards, it may receive a low EcoVadis score. is can be a missed opportunity, especially when buyers are using these scores to make sourcing decisions. In other words, you must prove that your sustainability practices are intentional, documented, and measurable. is is where many wooden pallet and container manufacturers can gain a competitive edge. By aligning their operations with ESG best practices and clearly communicating those efforts through platforms like EcoVadis, they can differentiate themselves in the marketplace, build stronger relationships with buyers, and position themselves as leaders in sustainable supply chains. Prac cal Steps To Get Started With EcoVadis Here's how wooden pallet and container manufacturers can begin their EcoVadis journey and position themselves for success: 1. Assemble Your Team Iden fy: • Who holds key data (HR, EHS, procurement)? • Who will complete the questionnaire?

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