Starting tomorrow May 31st, 2014, High Tech & Electronics companies, and as many as 6,000 other publicly traded U.S. companies are due to file their first specialized disclosures and conflict minerals reports (CMRs) with the Securities and Exchange Commission. After the May 31 deadline, issuers will be required to file annual disclosures and CMRs annually thereafter.
The task for addressing this mandate isn't trivial though. This is why companies are seeking for ways to minimize their efforts.
One interesting approach that Intel and HP are driving forward, as part of the Conflict-Free Sourcing Initiative (CFSI) is the Conflict-Free Smelter Program. A recent update (see "Smelter Reform Seen as Answer to Conflict-Free Minerals Sourcing") shows progress, but there is still a long way to go.
In time for the above mentioned deadline, SAP has made it easier for companies to deal with the collection of conflict-free minerals information in their supply chain by supporting the Conflict Minerals Reporting Template in the cloud-based SAP Product Stewardship Network. This network allows supply chain partners to more efficiently collaborate on product compliance and sustainability related information.
SAP is showcasing this capability at SAPPHIRE Now in Orlando next week!
Don't miss one of the Demo Theater sessions taking place there:
LB14346, Manage an Report the Use of Conflict Minerals to Comply with Regulations, Tuesday June 3rd, 11:00am, or Wednesday June 4th, 08:30am.
See you in Orlando!
Regards, Ulf.
