

Corporate Social Responsibility
Bluefields is committed to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). We are focused on making positive contributions to society, both in the Netherlands and the countries we supply. We have worked closely with our suppliers and subcontractors for over 15 years in order to improve the quality and efficiency of our working environment. In doing so we are also keenly aware of social and environmental issues.Code of Conduct
In order to maintain our working method and continue our business, Bluefields has developed its own Code of Conduct. This Code of Conduct comprises several aspects which make sure our suppliers are aware of Social Responsibility, Environmental Responsibility, Health Issues and Quality Management. Some examples of these aspects included in the Code of Conduct are:
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No supplier will engage in or force people into labour which involves physical or mental abuse or any form of punishment (ILO Convention 29 and 105).
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Suppliers must ensure that regular working hours or overtime do not exceed the legal maximum according to local laws. Overtime shall be voluntary and shall not exceed 12 hours per week.
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Suppliers shall support a safe working environment, free of environmental pollution and with a positive social atmosphere for all parties involved.
The Code of Conduct requires the full cooperation of our suppliers and shows us to what extent they pay attention to social issues, working in an environmentally friendly manner and quality management. By using the Code of Conduct and visiting our suppliers, we keep ourselves up to date on the working methods of our suppliers. By visiting our suppliers at least once a year, we can supervise their implementation of our Code of Conduct.
Here you will find the entire code of conduct of State of Art
Audit Reports
Bluefields collects, checks and archives the CSR Audit Reports of all its suppliers (for example, BSCI, WRAP, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, etc.). Moreover, our suppliers are obligated to send us the most recent Audit Reports whenever a new report is published.
Production countries
Bluefields closely monitors all suppliers. Our suppliers are located in Turkey (4), Greece (1), Italy (1), Peru (1), China (5), Bangladesh (1) and Vietnam (2). We have worked closely with these suppliers for more than fifteen years. Bluefields collects the Audit Reports of the suppliers as well as, for example, certificates of the Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP).
For over 20 years, Bluefields has been working with, among others, Franky and Ricky S.A from Peru. Franky and Ricky S.A. participated in the Social Innovation trajectory by Solidaridad and are ISO 9001, SA 9000 and BASC certified.
Sustainability
We are making progress when it comes to sustainability. The rooftop of the Bluefields head office in Lichtenvoorde also features 221 solar panels. Our goal is to be completely “carbon neutral” within five years.
Logistics and distribution
Our logistics operator, DHL, is Exel Supply Chain ISO 14001 certified, which means it guarantees and upholds the environmental awareness policy. DHL also launched its “GoGreen program” five years ago and, in doing so, became the first logistics company in the world to set a measurable target for climate protection. DHL has 8,500 climate-friendly vehicles that are hybrid, electric and/or use natural gas instead of petrol or diesel.
Printing
All our printed communication (brochures, displays, etc.) is made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified material. Our printing office is completely carbon neutral.
Toners and Cartridges
The empty toners and cartridges of our printers and copiers are disposed of responsibly.
Rough materials
Over 25% of the materials used by Bluefields are raw materials with a clear preference for environmental friendliness. For example, IPPC (International Plant Protection Convention) pallets, recycled cardboard and PVC-free plastic.
Leather tanning
Our leather tanning operator Donders BV uses three environmentally responsible methods:
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Chromic tanning method: chemicals will not be oxidised from Cr3 to Cr6.
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Vegetable tanning: only natural substances are used.
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Synthetic tanning: low water consumption and no problems with chrome.
REACH
Bluefields, its suppliers and sub-suppliers work according to the requirements of the Restricted Substances List (according to the European Union REACH Regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), Doc No. 01-20041-en) in its respectively valid edition. Moreover, Bluefields, its suppliers and sub-suppliers are also required to meet the recommendations for the Restricted Substances List of MODINT (Dutch Apparel Branch Organisation) in its respectively valid edition.