A fascinating series of Podcasts discussing ESG and CSR risks within your supply chains
A thought-provoking series of ESG and CSR podcasts brought to you by the team behind the leading ESG platform STAR Index. Join us, as we discuss some of the hot topics of the day and speak with industry leading supply chain professionals.
We will lift the lid on the various ESG challenges businesses face as they move towards a more purpose driven future, and how they can get the balance right between people, planet and profits. Our guests will share with us insights, experience, hints and tips, and hopefully be good company for your ears along the way.
Podcasts Available
About our channel ESG Insights - Ep1
Without Visibility there is no Accountability - Ep2
Platforms, A New Approach & Partners - Ep3
An introduction about our new ESG Insights podcast series, understand what we will cover over the course of the coming months and understand how we can help with ESG and CSR risks.
In this episode, Stephen Whyte and Rick Sanderson discuss how the ‘concept’ of STAR Index was born, the path they have both been on to get to a position of knowledge in the ESG space and the issues facing the modern business discussing topics such as modern slavery and the impact of palm oil on climate change and the need for transparency in supply chains.
As industries are facing the climate crisis and the challenges it poses, we need to be honest about what we’ve learnt over the past 20 years….. or what we’ve not learnt!
In this weeks episode Stephen and Rick cover the idea that led to STAR Index’s creation, why the partner programme was launched and the benefits this will deliver not only to the partner but also the end client.
A Universal Challenge - Ep4
Personal Responsibility VS Corporate Responsibility - Ep 5
A Cockpit View of Risk - Ep 6
In this episode Stephen and Rick discuss what led to the lightbulb moment of STAR Index’s creation. They also talk about the clear gap in the market for measuring and scoring supply chain risks.
The Future: More Responsible & Sustainable Supply Chains - Ep 7
Are codes of practice a cop out post COP26? - Ep 8
Does Responsible Sourcing pay for itself or is this an increased cost? - Ep 9
To impact the future, we need to act now. Stephen and Rick state why profit is not a dirty word! They also tackle sustainable growth, the need for investment now, why each business should have sustainability as a business value and also discuss Google’s scope 3 emissions – and the reality of tackling these.
The short answer – yes! Stephen talks about his experience of being on the receiving end of codes of practice and how all industries have been grappling with modern slavery in their supply chains for decades.
Stephen and Rick also discuss how business’ codes of practices have not moved the dial in ethical issues, in fact it’s got worse.
Stephen and Rick debate does responsible sourcing pay for itself, or is this an increased cost in this weeks episode.
They discuss the benefits of spending locally and why we should aim to purchase from responsible sourcing suppliers. Other issues covered include the role of the consumer within ethical sourcing, and why we as consumers need to change our priorities.
Business as Usual has got us into this mess, but will it get us out of it? - Ep 10
Without Visibility can you ever get Accountability? - Ep 11
Can zero hour contracts and the gig economy ever be sustainable or justified? - Ep 12
In this weeks episode Stephen and Rick explore the fragility of supply chains, how businesses are tackling climate change and corporate vs. personal responsibility.
One key area discussed is the vast amount of scope 3 emissions in supply chains, and they question why have Google, one of the wealthiest, most profitable businesses on our planet not put any strong, ambitious, measurable targets in place to remove or reduce these.
They also discuss how businesses now must consider not only their profit – but the planet and its people too. They talk about the future of business, and how sustainability will impact this.
In this week’s episode Stephen and Rick explore why transparent supply chains are vital to business resilience, the importance of sustainable partnerships and the reality of optimising investments in ESG platforms.
They also discuss the role of compliance, and does this really uncover and address all issues in a supply chain or is it just a tick box exercise?
In this week’s episode Stephen and Rick discuss the impact of zero hour contracts on workers and the role that the Amazon corporation plays in this. They also talk about the Uber business model and the competition this has introduced into the marketplace.
They delve into how large corporations are abusing zero hour contracts and Stephen’s personal experience with this type of agreement.
Is the era of ‘spot buying’ & ‘transactional suppliers’ over? - Ep13
Stephen and Rick delve into spot buying and the effects this has on carbon reduction, the positive change that Prince’s Food implemented in their supply chain and the pressures that are on buyers.
They also discuss the benefits of transparent supply chains, and Stephen talks about McDonalds open book costing model and why this ensures a fair return for their suppliers.
They explore why the partnership and bond between supplier and brand are key to a more sustainable future together.
Are ‘uncool dads’ actually sustainability superheroes? - Ep14
Stephen and Rick debate the question ‘are uncool dads actually sustainability superheroes?’
They talk about a ‘throwaway’ society, fast fashion and the benefits of reducing, reusing and recycling.
Need more up to date Intel on your Supply Chain?
If you want to listen to our podcasts when you are on the move, or you want to keep up to date with our ESG and CSR podcasts, access the links here
