This year marks the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Global Compact and the 10th anniversary of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). And we, at Green Apples, proudly join the movement today, 25 September, and are Flying the Flag with UN Global Compact Network UK (https://www.linkedin.com/company/un-global-compact-network-uk/) to show that we are all working #TogetherForTheSDGs.
Our commitment to sustainability is rooted in action, and over the past year, we have developed and implemented strategies that advance no less than six SDGs:
Gender Equality (5) Clean Water and Sanitation (6) Decent Work and Economic Growth, sourcing raw materials, goods and services by nearshoring; Contracting local suppliers to create long-term value for the business and those living and working nearby. (8) Responsible Consumption and Production (12) Climate Action, reducing the company's CO2 emissions. (13) Life on Land (15).
Two major achievements
In 2024 Green Apples was appointed as the expert partner to work with a global organisation to develop and implement a sustainable procurement programme. “We had two major achievements we are very proud of. First is that we implemented the Green Apples proved method in Sustainable Procurement and delivered a five (5) year plan to transform procurement practices." says Ana-Maria Velica, Director and Founder.
Conducting supplier risk assessments and launching an engagement programme to strengthen ethical supply chains. Upskilling procurement teams to minimise risk, build stronger supplier relationships, and embed responsible and ethical practices. Implemented global responsible sourcing standards ESG criteria embedded in suppliers' qualification steps and solicitation (RFI, FRQ, FRP) Running supplier education programmes and mentoring leadership teams on urgent issues such as modern slavery. Conducting regular supplier visits and education programs for key suppliers for continuous improvement and alignment with sustainability standards. Mentored suppliers’ leadership on the urgency to adopt and comply with the Modern Slavery Act. The impact has been significant, and Vlad Gradinariu, Director of Operations, added: “Our Sustainable procurement program enabled the client to maintain a Platinum Medal from EcoVadis*, placing them in the top 1% of companies worldwide for sustainability performance, and also achieved an improved score in sustainable procurement, a recognition of the lasting value our programme delivers." *EcoVadis is globally recognised for its trusted business sustainability ratings, covering evaluation areas in environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and procurement. For us, sustainable procurement is not just compliance, but creating long-term value for businesses, communities, and the planet. By nearshoring suppliers, reducing emissions, and embedding responsible sourcing practices, we are shaping supply chains to be resilient, ethical, and future-ready. Today, as the SDG Flag is raised once again, we reflect on these achievements with pride and even more determination.
