Unisource Worldwide, Inc., a distributor of paper, packaging, and facility supplies, is now asking its suppliers to complete a Sustainability Scorecard to ensure that environmental responsibility is being practiced and assessed according to standard industry procedures.

Unisource’s program is based on the Walmart Sustainability Scorecard, which Unisource says is viewed as best practice in the area of corporate sustainability. This environmental appraisal tool offers an in-depth look based on 15 questions Unisource is asking of its suppliers. The scorecard serves as a comprehensive response for the information required to complete the sustainability assessment and explore in great detail the business case and potential benefits for companies to measure and manage their environmental impacts. The questions are grouped into four categories: 1) Energy & Climate; 2) Material Efficiency; 3) Nature & Resources; and, 4) People & Community.

“We are striving to achieve our corporate sustainability goals with a shared commitment and partnership from our supplier base,” says Unisource vice president of Sustainability Nancy C. Geisler, in outlining the basis for the Unisource Sustainability Scorecard. “By working closely together with them, we will both be assured that we are minimizing future business risk associated with environmental and social factors.” A short video is available on the Unisource site, featuring Geisler speaking about the Sustainability Scorecard.