This is why SAP is working with Nestlé on ways to access such data . “ We want to solve the data problem to provide a view of the renewables in chocolate-box packaging . What ' s its recyclability ? How compostable is it ? What ' s the thickness ? What ' s the weight ?
“ Once we understand such things , we can then start to aggregate analytics at a global level and help sustainability managers understand how they ' re performing against commitments .”
Of course , circularity isn ’ t just a challenge facing multinationals ; small to medium-sized businesses must also toe the line . But how can SMEs adopt a circular approach when they lack the funding or technology of their larger rivals ?
“ If I were an SME right now ,” says Jamieson , “ I ’ d concentrate on scalable principles . You don ' t need to be a big enterprise to foster change . It ’ s all about embedding sustainable practices that can be scaled as you grow .”
Regulatory complexity on sustainability is ever-increasing Another challenge to circularity is regulatory complexity , which continues to evolve and change . At the last count , there were approximately 400 extended producer responsibility schemes worldwide , and this takes no account of the new and changing laws and regulations being introduced on a country-by-country basis .
“ This is the world into which we launched SAP Responsible Design and Production at the end of 2021 ,” says Jamieson . “ It ’ s all about addressing the key sustainability challenges , solving the data challenge , and unpicking complex packaging scenarios with a view to drive action .”
According to Jamieson , the company is looking to leverage its network-based solutions like SAP Ariba and SAP Business Network for Logistics .
“ We ’ re currently working with 3.5 million businesses around the world and are starting to make connections between the people that have the materials , with the people that need those materials ,” he explains .
“ As we move forward in 2023 , it ' s about innovating business-specific and industryspecific solutions that address the final mile , so we can help consumers play their role in delivering a waste-free future .
“ We ' re also being very selective in terms of the materials we are focusing on . At the moment we have a real focus on plastics and packaging , but this will rapidly expand into textiles , batteries , food , building materials , electronic components , as further regulations come online and existing regulations change .” sustainabilitymag . com 51