58 • Sustainability Report 2012
In view of the scale and scope of our operations
as a major energy supplier in the region, we are
fully aware that our ethical standards and quality
practices set benchmarks and raise behavioural
levels within the industry. We have thus established
structures and mechanisms that ensure the
highest levels of quality throughout our supply
chain. In addition to a strict Code of Practice for
suppliers, stringent assessments and approval
processes, which include routine checks, ongoing
assessments, regular quality meetings and factory
audits, help to maintain quality levels throughout
the entire process.
CSR practices have also been incorporated into
our daily procurement practices. As a member of
the Green Purchasing Charter, green specifications
– taking reference both from the Environmental
Protection Department and green label guidelines
developed by the Hong Kong Green Council
as well as our user departments – have been
formally defined. Potential suppliers are assessed
and included on our supply list upon meeting
our criteria, and we also share our experiences
with other leading companies. Extending these
activities, our procurement staff on the mainland
also participated in a CSR and Code of Practice
audit, surveying suppliers against various
environmental criteria.
Walking this talk, our e-Procurement system,
launched in September 2009, provides a common
platform for buyers and sellers to exchange
information, purchase orders, shipment documents
and invoices, without the use of paper. Currently
over 90% of the purchase of all direct materials are
processed through this e-Procurement system.
CSR Code of Practice for
Suppliers
Driving our green practices and promoting socially
responsible attitudes, we extended our Code of
Conduct to suppliers in 2008. All our suppliers
are encouraged to follow this Code of Practice
with regard to their business ethics, workplace
operations, marketplace activities, community
contact and environmental undertakings. Now
covering over 80% of the goods and materials
purchased by our Hong Kong operations, we also
conduct surveys and factory audits based on this
Code. Plans are currently in hand to extend these
CSR practices and audits onto the mainland
in 2013.
Supply Chain Management