The California Transparency in Supply Chains Act requires that retailers and manufacturers doing business in California provide consumers with information regarding their efforts to eradicate slavery and human trafficking from their direct supply chains. Cascades adheres to and supports the objectives of this Act, which are consistent with its company values and mission, notably to “contribute to the well-being of people, communities and the planet”.
Verification
Cascades works with a recognized independent firm specializing in assessing supplier practices. This enables us to ensure that we work with organizations that share our values and engage in sustainable and responsible practices. We regularly assess a targeted number of suppliers. They are chosen based on a set of criteria established by our management team and on their level of potential risk.
The suppliers being assessed must complete a questionnaire covering a series of criteria grouped into four themes: environment, social practices, ethics and supply chain. At the end of the assessment, we will be able to identify their positioning relative to the average of other companies, their strengths and weaknesses, as well as their labour practices and respect for human rights.
Audits
Following the results of the assessment conducted by the independent firm or a supplier’s refusal to certify its compliance, Cascades reserves the right to perform an audit or to contract a third party to conduct such an audit, without notice.
Certfications
When negotiating its procurement contracts, Cascades’ suppliers are asked to adhere to the principles outlined in its Code of Ethics and Business Conduct and in its Commitment on Human Rights.
In these documents, the company undertakes to uphold the laws of the countries in which it operates and to respect human rights. It also affirms that it will not under any circumstances tolerate human trafficking, slavery, forced labour, corporal punishment or child labour. The company recognizes its employees’ freedom of association and right to collective bargaining and is committed to providing them with a safe and secure workplace.
Accountability
Cascades expects all its employees and suppliers to act in an honest and ethical manner. In accordance with our Code of Ethics and Business Conduct, they are required to comply with the laws of the countries in which they do business and with Cascades’ policies and procedures, including its Commitment on Human Rights.
Any employee who fails to comply with the provisions of the Code of Ethics and Business Conduct, established policies, standards or procedures is subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.
Cascades reserves the right to terminate any business relationship with a supplier that fails to comply with international human rights and labour conventions and refuses to take steps to improve compliance.
Training
Training on the company’s Code of Ethics and Business Conduct is available to all employees and is mandatory for all managers, including our procurement staff. In addition, the procurement staff must follow specific training on human trafficking and slavery.