What does IDH mean in UNCLASSIFIED

IDH stands for Initiative for Sustainable Trade. It is a global partnership between governments, civil society and business that seeks to accelerate sustainable trade strategies by creating transformational public and private sector partnerships. IDH works with companies, farmers, governments and other stakeholders to deliver business models that are fit for the future.

IDH works with partners in various sectors including cocoa, coffee, cut flowers and timber to promote responsible sourcing of raw materials from sustainable sources. The organization provides technical support services such as certification advice, farmer training and market access assistance. Additionally, it facilitates large-scale market transformation projects aimed at promoting sustainable supply chains.

Companies can benefit from joining IDH by gaining access to resources such as training material on best practices for sustainable production processes; certification advice; access to funding opportunities for sustainability initiatives; and facilitation services in engaging stakeholders along their supply chain. Farmers can benefit through increased crop yields due to better farming practices, increased income due to fair prices paid for their products, and improved livelihoods through capacity building initiatives in their communities.

There are several challenges associated with sustainable sourcing including awareness of sustainable practices among suppliers; financial constraints which may limit investments in Certification or compliance activities; inadequate infrastructure which may limit the ability of suppliers to meet requirements; limited access to markets due to lack of understanding of market needs or cultural barriers; and legal or political challenges related to trade agreements or labor laws.

Absolutely! Depending on your sector you can join IDH as an NGO partner, Supplier Partner (responsible company) or even a National Government Partner. For more information about how you can join please visit our website www.idhtrade.org/join-us/

Not necessarily – although certification does play an important role in credible supply chains and is strongly encouraged by IDH as part of our commitment towards sustainability standards within value chains we work with. However successful applicants should demonstrate a clear commitment towards continually improving sustainability in their operations which goes beyond full compliance with applicable laws or regulations.

Yes - one way that we help our partners surmount these challenges is by providing guidance on financing options available both internal within a company’s own budgeting framework as well as external options such as public funds dedicated to support these initiatives.

Responsible purchasing decisions involve taking into account not only the environmental but also social considerations when selecting suppliers goods and services – this includes aspects pertaining labor standards (such as worker health & safety) human rights (anti-discrimination policies) animal welfare (where applicable) transparency (conflict minerals etc). To ensure you are factoring these criteria into your purchasing decisions you might want consider conducting supplier screening procedures prior awarding contracts.