20 years: Human Rights and Supply Chains
Now we’re familiar with what a supply chain is and where ESG fits into it, Kate Larsen guides us through the problems we have with supply chains - pollution, deforestation, child labour, slavery, wage abuse and even death. From budget brands to high end luxury - these aren’t problems on far away shores. In fact, many of these are closer to home than you think.
Now we’re familiar with what a supply chain is and where ESG fits into it, Kate Larsen guides us through the problems we have with supply chains - pollution, deforestation, child labour, slavery, wage abuse and even death. From budget brands to high end luxury - these aren’t problems on far away shores. In fact, many of these are closer to home than you think.
In recent years we've seen a flurry of new laws which call on companies to conduct due diligence on supply chains, with particular focus on environmental and social factors (such as human rights and labour standards). Some of the most vulnerable workers in developing countries have been targeted by bad actors. This has left them in debt bondage i.e. modern slavery. Western Buyers are increasingly held to account to do human rights due diligence to help people in their supply chains have their Environmental Social rights respected. There are 17 SDGs, but the first is no poverty.
Studies show that the majority of workers making clothing and shoes globally for western brands aren't paid a living wage. Many need to work 80 hours a week in physical work to pay for often still slum-like living conditions.
Key learning objectives:
Identify the causes of supply chain abuse
Identify examples of supply chain abuse
Understand the consequences of supply chain abuse