DRiVE is a game-changer for Sustainable Procurement in the UN. By leveraging DRiVE, the UN can make informed decisions and ensure that its suppliers are aligned with the organization's sustainability goals.
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| A Brighter Future for the UN Supply Chain: UNOPS and ILO Partner: The collaboration between UNOPS and ILO has the potential to transform the way the UN procures goods and services, leading to a more sustainable and ethical supply chain. Symbolic Image |
Copenhagen, Denmark – October 10, 2024:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) have joined forces to strengthen the United Nations' commitment to sustainable procurement. The partnership aims to integrate UNOPS's innovative Supplier Sustainability Programme (DRiVE) into the ILO's procurement processes, setting a new standard for responsible sourcing within the UN system.
DRiVE is a cutting-edge tool that assesses suppliers' sustainability performance across various dimensions, including environmental impact, labor practices, and social responsibility. By collecting data from suppliers, DRiVE provides valuable insights into potential risks and areas for improvement. This data-driven approach enables the UN to make informed decisions and ensure that its suppliers align with the organization's sustainability goals.
The collaboration between ILO and UNOPS marks a significant step towards establishing a unified, UN-wide approach to sustainable procurement. By piloting DRiVE within the ILO's procurement cycle, the two agencies aim to demonstrate the tool's effectiveness and provide a roadmap for other UN agencies to adopt it.
The partnership aligns with the UN's broader commitment to sustainability and social justice. By promoting responsible sourcing and ethical business practices, the UN can contribute to addressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.
The ILO, with its expertise in labor standards and social justice, brings a unique perspective to the partnership. The organization's involvement will help ensure that DRiVE is aligned with international labor standards and promotes decent work throughout the UN's supply chains.
UNOPS, with its extensive experience in project management and procurement, will provide technical support and guidance to the ILO in implementing DRiVE. The agency's expertise in sustainability and supplier engagement will be invaluable in ensuring the success of the pilot program.
The partnership between ILO and UNOPS is a testament to the growing importance of sustainable procurement within the UN system. By working together, the two agencies are paving the way for a more responsible and ethical UN supply chain. The success of this pilot program could have far-reaching implications for the entire UN system, inspiring other agencies to adopt similar initiatives and contribute to a more sustainable future.