What steps has bpost already taken in the journey to a low-carbon supply chain?

Last year we launched a major program, building on a clear strategy to address carbon emissions. We started by mapping our data – and now we’ve moved on to activating and engaging suppliers.

What is currently the biggest challenge in that process?

From the beginning, we made a strong commitment to improving the quality and transparency of our data. That was really important. But the challenge now is: how do we use that data effectively? How do we draw the right conclusions so that we can take the next step and really engage our suppliers?

And then, of course, there is another challenge: creating internal support. We have to keep reminding everyone of the importance of working with suppliers.

What motivated you to participate in this learning network?

The timing was perfect. We had just started to seriously focus on Scope 3 emissions, but we had little starting point or experience on how to go about it. This community felt like a great opportunity to network and learn from other organizations – to see how they approach it, and to grow into it ourselves.

What session or topic in particular stuck out to you?

Especially the session on artificial intelligence. I had never looked into that before – it was not on my radar at all. But it opened my eyes to how much potential technology offers to make data journalism simpler and more robust.

“Without a community, you often stay in your own bubble. By engaging with others, you gain new perspectives and ideas.”

Has the Community of Practice format helped you in your daily work?

Absolutely. It makes it much easier to reach out to others. If you have a question or run into a problem, it’s much easier to just call or message someone you’ve met through the group. You can quickly check out how they handle it – and then take those lessons back to your own organization. It’s been really valuable.

What do other organizations need to know when addressing emissions in their supply chain?

It starts with two things: measure – get a clear picture of your carbon footprint and learn with and from others. Every organization that has mapped its carbon footprint and notices that Scope 3 has a big impact will feel the need to do something. That insight in itself creates urgency.

Joining a community of practice is then a good first step. Without a community, you often stay in your own bubble. By engaging with others, you gain new perspectives and ideas. You discover other ways to look at the challenge – and you feel encouraged to take action.