Monitoring and verification
The Accountability Framework is a resource to help companies produce and source commodities while protecting forests and other natural ecosystems and respecting human rights. It guides the establishment of policies and implementation systems to achieve ethical supply chains, including systems for monitoring and verification of a company’s supply base and the performance of its suppliers. Review the Framework’s position and guidance on monitoring and verification and find user tools to apply the Framework.
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Monitoring and verification (M&V) systems are essential components of company operations, risk assessment, supply chain management, and reporting. Internally, M&V enables companies to assess risk and performance in relation to supply chain goals. This supports companies to address risks and improve sustainability performance of their own operations and supply chains. Externally, M&V systems are critical for providing credible information on company performance to buyers, investors, and civil society.
Core Principle 11 states that regular monitoring should be conducted relative to the compliance requirements and time-bound targets associated with the company’s commitments and other obligations. The Accountability Framework outlines three monitoring approaches:
- On-the-ground monitoring: Monitoring of production units and primary processing sites
- Area-based monitoring: Monitoring of sourcing areas or jurisdictions
- Supplier monitoring: Monitoring of suppliers’ management and control systems
Companies should use one or more of these approaches, depending on their supply chain position, visibility to the supply-base level, and approach to supply chain management. For instance, producers and those who buy directly from them may be able to conduct accurate on-the-ground monitoring. Downstream companies may rely on a combination of monitoring strategies, including the use of certification and similar tools that incorporate on-the-ground monitoring. For each of the three monitoring approaches, the Framework provides guidelines and examples of suitable tools and metrics for effective monitoring of social, environmental, and land-use outcomes.
Core Principle 11 also states that company performance and compliance must be validated through verification processes that follow norms of good practice for credibility, rigor, and independence. The Framework includes guidelines for credible verification to provide the necessary level of assurance for both internal management and external stakeholders.
Learn more and apply the Framework
Guidance on Monitoring and Verification
Review the Framework’s full guidance on Monitoring and Verification
Use the self-assessment tool
Benchmark your supply chain goals and implementation systems (including monitoring and verification systems) against the Framework and identify key areas for improvement
Still have questions?
If you have specific questions about how the Framework can be applied in your context, or if you would like to speak to a member of the AFi team, please contact us below.
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