We work collaboratively with suppliers and, in 2008, provided training on calculating GHG Protocol Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions and water stress to better understand these impacts (results in the Environment Section). All SRS suppliers were invited to attend one of eight sessions conducted across different time zones.

To track compliance with SRS initiatives, we conduct an annual survey of paper providers and a Social Responsibility Survey for all others. In 2008, the average survey response rate was 43%.

Key 2008 SRS Data

 2008 2007 2006 2005
Number of SRS suppliers 368 391 389 290
Number/percent of suppliers with a board level representative responsible for corporate responsibility 109/69% 120/71% 80/75% 42/75%
Number of external audits 19 21 9 15
Number of non-compliant suppliers 16 18 9 15
Number of Corrective Action Reports 15 18 9 15
Number/percent of suppliers with a formal Environmental Management System 101/64% 132/79% 81/95% 35/62%
Number/percent of suppliers with environmental reduction targets 73/46% 79/48% 45/53% 27/67%
Number/percent of suppliers with external certification 81/51% 82/49% 20/24% 23/41%
Number/percent of suppliers who externally report on their environmental impact 62/39% 55/34% 33/39% 22/55%

In addition, our survey of paper suppliers details bleaching processes, the amount and percentage of certified and recycled fibre, and whether any genetically modified organisms are used in their pulp (none are used). 50% of paper suppliers externally reported their full CO2 emissions.

In addition to ink, varnish, spiral wire, lamination, and glue, we expanded our product safety standards in 2008 to include packaging, defined as all packaging materials or packaging components that enter landfills, waste incinerators, recycling streams, and ultimately, the environment. For 2008, using SRS high risk guidelines we asked eight Chinese suppliers to submit product safety tests.