How to select suppliers when implementing a sustainable procurement strategy

Abstract

Sustainable development is increasingly integrating corporate key strategies, and specially the purchasing function. Thus, optimizing environmental, social and economic dimensions is a priority for firms caring about sustainability. That involves choosing suppliers caring about continuous growth as well. This paper shows how companies should adapt their relationships with their suppliers when implementing sustainable procurement strategy, depending on the category of purchased items, and also the efforts that should be made by proactive buying firms to make progress in sustainable supply chain management.