Tool 3 – Developing Effective RSPs
Tool 3 provides guidance on evaluating and participating in RSPs, working with stakeholders to define appropriate standards and how to evaluate an RSP. Leading practice is for RSPs to follow the ISEAL Standard-Setting Code.
Step Guide
STEP
1
Ensure your company has a clear message detailing objectives and overall focus. The programme must be clearly defined, practical, confidential and be able to be used by smaller operators
STEP
2
Build recognised and respected memberships from traders and actors in the middle of the value chain to end-use companies
STEP
3
Ensure you have an effective multi-stakeholder consultation process and the RSP meets the environmental and social outcomes expected by stakeholders such as NGOs and governments
STEP
4
Engage with all value chain actors to implement the RSP, share information and explain standpoints
STEP
5
Are your governance systems balanced, displaying no preference to particular groups? Consider using external, independent quality control processes to build credibility and confidence in the RSP
STEP
6
Ensure your RSP processes are transparent and traceable to avoid mistrust amongst stakeholders, source and end-use markets
STEP
7
Identify and focus on the most significant performance areas
Top Tips:
Costs:
- Participation costs for supply chain actors should be minimised by reconciling with established initiatives such as the Global Reporting Initiative, the EU’s REACH Legislation, the Conflict-Free Gold Standard, the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the OECD’s due diligence guidance and ISO standards
- Actors close to the market need to use their commercial leverage to drive requirements
Further Reading: