The RESPIRO project facilitated and promoted an exchange of experiences regarding the inclusion of social and ethical requirements into procurement actions both between public and private sector purchasers and their potential suppliers. The project concluded at the end of 2007.
Two sectors were selected for particular attention:
Construction
– as Europe’s largest industrial employer, efforts to promote Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) principles, such as healthy and safe working conditions and combating against black labour, can have a significant impact on a great many people. In addition, social criteria in sourcing supplies can have sustainability gains in the global dimension.
Textiles and Clothing
– a sector under high pressure from global competition where CSR principles such as quality employment can help to profile European industry. Again, as the sector is a major employer especially in developing world countries, CSR principles are relevant along a global supply chain as well.
