Sustainability Assessments

Our Commitment to Sustainable Procurement

At Knorr-Bremse, we are dedicated to integrating sustainability throughout our supply chain. As part of this commitment, we require our suppliers to complete a Sustainability Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ). This process helps us ensure that our suppliers adhere to our high standards of environmental, social, and ethical performance. The SAQ is a critical tool that enables us to assess supplier sustainability, identify potential risks, and promote continuous improvement in sustainability practices.

Purpose of the Sustainability Assessment

The Sustainable Self-Assessment Questionnaire is designed to help us understand the sustainability practices and performance of our suppliers. By using this tool, we can identify and mitigate potential risks related to environmental impact, labor practices, human rights, and ethical governance. Additionally, the SAQ encourages suppliers to improve their sustainability practices and align with global standards. Furthermore, the Sustainability Assessment result of our suppliers enable us to integrate sustainability information in our purchasing decision. This collaborative approach not only benefits Knorr-Bremse but also enhances the overall sustainability of our supply chain.

Sustainability Assessment types

Knorr-Bremse accepts any kind of official and certificated assessment rating or evaluation which covers the three pillars: environmental responsibility, social respnsibility and ethical issues. The Sustainability Assessment should be evidence-based (answers proved by documentations) and validated by external third-party.

The SAQ Process

The SAQ process begins with inviting suppliers to participate in the Sustainability Assessment. Suppliers then share their already exisitng detailed report and related score with Knorr-Bremse or complete detailed questionnaires about their sustainability practices, policies, and performance on the platform we offer to them. The independent, external party evaluates the responses, using their respective methodologies to generate scores and information on improvement potentials. Suppliers receive scorecards and actionable gaps to help them identify areas for improvement. Knorr-Bremse reviews the assessments and collaborates with suppliers to address any identified risks or gaps, ensuring a continuous improvement cycle.

Benefits for Suppliers

Participating in the SAQ offers several benefits for suppliers. Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability can enhance a supplier’s reputation and competitiveness. Identifying and addressing potential risks helps prevent disruptions and ensures compliance with regulations. Access to expert feedback and benchmarking guides help suppliers in improving their sustainability practices. Additionally, collaborating with Knorr-Bremse on sustainability initiatives strengthens long-term business relationships, creating a more resilient and sustainable supply chain.

Contact Us

For more information about the Sustainable Self-Assessment Questionnaire please contact us at SustainablePurchasing@knorr-bremse.com. We are here to support our suppliers in their sustainability journey and ensure our supply chain meets the highest standards of sustainability performance.

Useful Resources

To assist our suppliers further, we provide a range of useful resources, including an overview of the Sustainability Self-Assessment Questionnaire, , our Supplier Code of Conduct, and the Knorr-Bremse Sustainability Report 2023. These resources offer additional insights and guidance on how to achieve and maintain high sustainability standards.