Our code of conduct helps to set out what ACCA values and holds to high importance.
It demonstrates the principles we hold close and makes it easy for a supplier to understand who we are, how we work and what we stand for.
It is a joint commitment between ACCA and our suppliers, leading with our intentions of how we wish to behave and work together to be a force for public good.
Our code of conduct will help us create common ground with our suppliers for sustainability commitments, this includes our commitment to:
- Sustainability and business ethics
- Health, safety and environment
- Human rights which include’s prevention of modern slavery
- Diversity and inclusion
- Information security
- Privacy
- Building resilience
- Anti-bribery and anti-corruption.
In addition to our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), our code of conduct should be read by prospective suppliers and additionally our incumbent suppliers. This can be distributed through their supply chain to subcontractors and those involved in supporting our contracts.
Supplier code of conduct benefits
- By establishing a supplier code of conduct, we are setting clear expectations in the way we consult and engage with our suppliers
- Creating further transparency and encouraging collaboration between ACCA and our suppliers
- Our code of conduct serves as an important benchmark tool for the goods and services we source internationally
- Our supplier code of conduct will ensure we and our supply chain uphold the highest standards as set out by the UNSDG’s.
Monitoring approach
ACCA’s supplier code of conduct is a multi-stakeholder initiative that may include:
- New tools for understanding supplier performance on the topics addressed. These may include assessments and evaluations
- New processes in our procurement and supply chain management to integrate these measurements into procurement decisions
- Commercial enforcement mechanisms such as contract clauses and eligibility for rewards incentives such as “preferred supplier” or “key supplier” status programs
- Internal management efforts to train employees and suppliers on the code of conduct and its implications for your business.
ACCA’s Path to Net Zero: Collaborating with Suppliers for a Sustainable Future:
In 2024, ACCA made a significant leap forward in our sustainability journey by becoming the first global professional accountancy body to have our net-zero targets verified by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Our targets are clear: a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, with a commitment to achieve net zero by 2045.
A key element of this journey is the role of our supply chain, which accounts for 31% of ACCA’s total carbon emissions. With this in mind, we recognize the critical importance of working closely with our suppliers to drive down emissions and support our ambitious goals.
To explore how we can collectively reduce carbon emissions across the supply chain, we partnered with Support the Goals to conduct in-depth desk-based research. This research has provided valuable insights into the sustainability practices of our suppliers, allowing us to identify areas of alignment and opportunities for improvement.
Through this collaborative effort, we’ve been able to refine and advance our plans to reduce emissions by 50% by 2030. We’ve also been engaging with our suppliers in a series of sessions over the past few months, where we’ve shared our progress and gathered feedback. These conversations have been incredibly encouraging, as we’ve learned about the many sustainability initiatives already underway within our supply chain.
We’re excited about the collective impact we can have when we align our sustainability efforts and share our strategies. As we move forward, we will continue to keep our suppliers informed about our progress and the steps we are taking. We also encourage any of our suppliers to reach out to us for more information or to discuss ways we can deepen our collaboration on this important journey.
Together, we can build a more sustainable future