Focus area
Today, consumers use product information to make sustainable buying decisions, regulators require that companies maintain reliable data on the sustainability of their products, and stakeholders consult market indices to make sustainable investment decisions.
While companies are taking steps to adopt sustainable business practices like conserving energy and recycling waste, these actions represent just a fraction of what’s possible. There are opportunities in how resources are used; how products are produced, packaged and shipped; and how waste is managed.
Global standards enable trading partners to swiftly and smoothly share accurate product information with each other – and to consumers – and help make sustainable business practices an integral part of day-to-day operations.
White paper
Between 50% and 60% of supermarket sales come from fresh food categories, yet it is estimated that 5% to 7% of fresh foods are lost to poor management. This means that food shrinkage and waste can cost retailers up to 4% of their overall revenue. Taking into account the industry’s razor-thin margins, unsold items are a major challenge for food retailers.
Case study
METRO GROUP extended its use of GS1 standards to its consumers, for end-to-end, business-to-business-to-consumer (B2B2C) commerce. Through the enhanced traceability programme, the company ensures the safety and sustainability of its products and sources.
White paper
GS1 is part of a collective effort to map and harmonise hundreds of disparate standards and certifications related to sustainable farming. The effort, known as The Blue Number Initiative, A Global Registry for Sustainable Farmers, will leverage GS1’s registry service. The registry will enable farmers, governments, businesses and communities to communicate with one another up and down the supply chain by establishing a common language and uniquely identifying farms globally.