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SmartSource

SmartSource is a customized service provided by the Rainforest Alliance to companies and organizations that want to examine and improve their forest-product purchasing policies and practices. We work with businesses to understand their sourcing challenges and design solutions that address these specific needs.

Our services range from individual workshops and training sessions for company staff and suppliers, to the development of a one- to-five year action plan designed to move a company's suppliers towards credible certification while helping the company get public recognition for its commitment to sustainability.

How SmartSource Works

Our SmartSource experts conduct a comprehensive supply chain assessment of a business and assist with the development and implementation of an environmentally and socially responsible procurement plan for the full spectrum of forest products -- such as paper and packaging, lumber and finished wood products. This process can include some or all of the following steps:

• A preliminary sourcing review to identify strengths and weaknesses in a company's current supply chain and immediate steps for improvement
• Customized internal training on corporate social responsibility; sustainable forest management practices; third-party certification; responsible forest products purchasing; trends and developments in global forest product markets; and tools for monitoring progress and communicating achievements
• Guidance for a company's suppliers to help them move toward sustainable practices and certification
• Assistance in the development of a comprehensive purchasing policy and action plan designed in collaboration with the company, its suppliers and other suppliers in the Rainforest Alliance's global network
• Verification of supplier claims regarding the legal origin of forest products and of a company's progress in reaching its stated sustainability goals
• Communication support to help a company educate its vendors and consumers about its commitment to building a more sustainable, socially responsible business.

We also work with companies that have already established purchasing plans to help them evaluate their effectiveness and identify any weak spots. Our flexible program helps businesses find solutions to the challenges they face and work gradually but steadily toward those purchasing objectives that may not be immediately achievable.

Smart Businesses Choose SmartSource

Here are just some of the companies that have worked with SmartSource:

Marks & Spencer Unilever Gibson Kraft UniSource Century Furniture StoneSource

The Coca Cola Company Staples Knoll, Inc. Sauder United Kingdom Timber Trade Federation Martin Guitar ForestWorld

ABC Home Furnishings, Inc. Jensen Leisure Furniture Anderson Hardwood Floors Ben & Jerry's LL Bean Scholastic