Going Green To Make Your Supply Chain Environmentally Responsible

By Christopher P. Sciacca
Expert Author
Article Date: 2009-10-02

Apple just launched a new set of web pages dedicated to proving that they have a socially responsible supply chain. While it is very open and informative, to really "account for everything" as the website declares they need to go back further then just manufacturing and logistics.

For example, what about the carbon emissions released when the trees are cut down and turned into pulp to make their boxes or when the aluminum is manufactured?

They are only measuring when they take ownership of the goods, though on the other end they are taking responsibility for the consumer, i.e. the power use and recycling, which many don't consider in their numbers.

Either way, I applaud the openness of the data and I do feel better as a consumer. Lets hope and the Copenhagen event in the next few weeks public officials can do their part.

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About the Author:
Christopher P. Sciacca is located in Brno, Czech Republic where he is the manager of strategic communications for Europe and Africa for IBM's global delivery business. His responsibilities include helping global delivery employees across Europe and Africa understand IBM's strategy and how they contribute to it. He is also introducing the latest in Web 2.0 technologies including virtual worlds and social networks to employees to help them make connections that count globally. He is also responsible for external communications, where he works with members of the press, academia, government officials and analysts to help them understand IBM's strategy of becoming a globally integrated company. He currently keeps an acclaimed and widely read blog called "Why supply chains rock?", which takes a simple, yet entertaining look at the impact of supply chains on daily life.