Sedex, a global leader in supply chain sustainability, is thrilled to announce three groundbreaking product releases set for 2024. These data-driven tools are designed to help businesses navigate the evolving landscape of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges, offering greater supply chain visibility, compliance with sustainability laws, and robust ESG performance management.

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In an era where companies must balance operational demands with increasing sustainability expectations from lawmakers, investors, and consumers, detailed visibility into supply chain activities is essential. Sedex’s 2024 product releases include the updated SMETA 7.0 audit, a new environment-focused Supplier Self-Assessment Questionnaire (ESAQ), and an enhanced Service Provider Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ).

SMETA 7.0 Update

The SMETA audit, renowned for its comprehensive site-level assessments of sustainable practices, is evolving with its seventh core iteration. This update, the result of a multi-year project, aims to provide a sharper focus on identifying and resolving complex issues within supply chain worksites.

Key enhancements include:

Workplace Requirements

Clearer compliance guidelines for better adherence to sustainability standards.

Collaborative Action Required Findings

Extended joint resolution efforts for complex issues.

Management Systems Assessment

A thorough approach to managing potential ESG risks within supply chains.

Environment Self-Assessment Questionnaire (ESAQ)

Expanding Sedex’s environmental data capabilities, the ESAQ allows businesses to collect, share, and analyze critical environmental metrics, such as water consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste management. This tool helps companies gain deeper visibility, identify improvement areas, align with global regulations, and progress toward their sustainability goals.

Service Provider Self-Assessment Questionnaire

Tailored for service provider businesses, this SAQ addresses sector-specific risks and compliance needs in areas like logistics, security, and waste management. By focusing on factors such as location, work type, and company size, the tool enhances transparency, data analysis, and decision-making, driving higher ethical standards.

“These releases highlight our dedication to empowering sustainable supply chains,” said Sedex CEO, Jon Hancock. “By expanding our solutions for comprehensive ESG risk management and site-level visibility, we enable companies to improve operational efficiency, compliance, and supply chain resilience.

“Our latest advancements provide in-depth ESG data, streamlined analysis, and actionable insights across social and environmental areas, supporting our customers in meeting sustainability demands through data-led decision-making.”