Would Apple be willing to follow Microsoft?

We have reported many times in the past on the problems problems with Apple's supply chain, especially in China. Apple is making an effort to improve the current situation and even engaged lately with Chinese environmental groups, after these groups accused some of the company's suppliers in China of various environmental violations. So, I'd like to take the opportunity and offer Apple another option: Follow Microsoft.

I know Apple doesn't like to think of itself as a follower and not a leader, especially when we're talking about Microsoft, but this might be different. As I reported on Triple Pundit, Microsoft announced that starting in 2013 it will require a cross section of its suppliers to provide reports on their adherence to the requirements listed in the existing Microsoft Vendor Code of Conduct.

"Microsoft said vendors also will be encouraged to make their reports public and that it will include a summary of information from the vendor reports in its annual Citizenship Report. This is meant not just to provide further visibility to the company’s stakeholders, but also to make vendors understand that their reporting is not going to read just by Microsoft, but will be shared with the public (at least a summary of it). Hopefully it will encourage vendors to take reporting as well as the implementation of Microsoft’s standards more seriously."

Since Apple also has a code of conduct for its suppliers and is struggling with the challenge of holding their suppliers accountable I think this step might be a good fit for them.

So what do you say Apple? Are you ready to follow Microsoft?


Yours,
Raz @ Eco-Libris

Eco-Libris: Promoting Sustainable Reading!