Sedex is a supply chain management tool that helps companies identify, manage and mitigate ethical risks in global supply chains. As the largest collaborative platform for managing ethical supply chain data, Sedex engages with all tiers of the supply chain with the aim of driving improvements and convergence in responsible business practices. Sedex members can share and manage information related to Labour Standards, Health & Safety, The Environment and Business Practices. Members also have access to a range of tools and reports, including industry specific questionnaires and risk analysis tools. Sedex members benefit from a flexible framework that can be used with any code, standard or company policy. Sedex does not prescribe a specific audit report or reporting requirements, but the organization does provide a publicly available common audit reporting format and methodology (the Sedex Members Trade Audit, or SMETA) designed to reduce duplication of effort in ethical trade auditing.

Geographical Areas of Interest

Global

Supply Chain Focus

Forest production

Processing/Manufacturing

Trade

Related CHapters

Legality

Users can store supply chain information related to ethical and responsible practices covered by International Labour Organization, the Ethical Trade Initiative, or the UN Global Compact. It does not require reporting of this information, but encourages audits which track compliance with local laws and regulations.

Social Aspects

Allows members to store, share, and report supply chain information related to international labor standards and health and safety and compliance with laws on these issues.

Legality

Provides advice and guidance for compliance with UK central government procurement requirements for the legality of wood products. Accepts FSC and PEFC, as evidence of legality.

Climate

Although not required, members are encouraged to analyze and track the carbon footprint in their operations.