At Zerolla, we source our products ethically and transparently, and we want to help other small businesses do the same. It's easy to fall into the trap of sourcing cheaply, but maintaining ethical and sustainable practices is crucial for genuine eco-friendliness! Here's our 4E's guide on how small businesses can ensure an ethical and transparent supply chain 👇

1. EVALUATE

• Certifications: look for suppliers with ethical and environmental certifications. These certifications can help ensure your suppliers meet high standards.
• Questionnaires & audits: use simple questionnaires or occasional audits to ensure suppliers adhere to ethical labour practices and safe working conditions.
• Build relationships: develop long-term partnerships with suppliers who share your values, which can foster trust and consistency in ethical practices.

2. ENSURE

• Basic traceability: keep records of where your materials come from and their journey through your supply chain. This can be as simple as maintaining detailed invoices and supplier information.
• Communicate clearly: be transparent with your customers and stakeholders about your sourcing practices. Use your website and social media to share your journey and the origins of your materials.
• Annual updates: publish simple annual updates or reports on your sustainability efforts to keep your stakeholders informed and engaged.

3. EMBRACE

• Stay informed: follow industry news, join relevant groups, and attend webinars to stay updated on the latest developments in sustainable and ethical sourcing.
• Innovate with budget: seek affordable innovations and improvements, such as switching to more sustainable materials or finding ways to reduce waste in your processes.
• Feedback loops: create easy ways for customers and suppliers to give feedback, such as surveys or direct communication channels, to help you make informed improvements.

4. EDUCATE

• Supplier training: provide resources and guidance to help your suppliers understand and meet your ethical and sustainability standards.
• Consumer education: use your marketing channels to educate consumers about the importance of ethical sourcing and transparency, encouraging them to support businesses that prioritise these values.
• Collaborate for change: partner with other small businesses and organisations to advocate for broader industry changes towards sustainable practices.

Staying true to your values in sourcing ethically and maintaining supply chain transparency requires diligence and commitment, especially for small businesses. We believe that every step towards a more ethical and transparent supply chain contributes to a healthier planet and a more just society!