Sustainable Sourcing Code Publishes by London 2012

The London 2012 Organising Committee today published the first edition of an online 'Sustainable Sourcing Code', continuing its commitment to making sure the 2012 Games are as sustainable as possible. The code will ensure LOCOG fully considers the environmental, social and ethical issues of products and services used for the Games. Primarily aimed at internal buyers, suppliers and licencees, it fits with the London 2012 Sustainability Plan and is based around key principles including 'responsible sourcing'; and minimising the environmental impacts during the manufacturing process. Potential products will be assessed

based on where they come from, who made them, what they're made of, what they are wrapped in and what will happen to them after the Games. The code was developed over a period of 18 months in consultation with leading retailers and brands in the sustainable procurement field, sponsors, industry experts and the third sector, including the Trades Union Congress, Playfair Alliance, the Ethical Trading Initiative, WWF, Fairtrade Foundation and UNICEF. It will be reviewed and updated as necessary over time. It is estimated LOCOG will generate around 5,000 direct business opportunities, with a total of around 25,000 opportunities through the supply chain. Most will take place between 2010-2012. London 2012 Chief Executive Paul Deighton said: 'London 2012 represents a fantastic opportunity to deliver a world class sporting event, but in a sustainable way. 'Our ambition is to set new sustainability benchmarks for the way large-scale events are staged, the Sustainable Sourcing Code is a key part of this.

One of the most important aspects of this for me is that we are able to develop this as we progress – this is just the first edition. As we move forward, learn more and gather feedback from others, we can ensure we stay current in this area and indeed across all of our sustainability themes.'