Designing RS Approaches: Major Principles

Based on the research and consultation findings of the RE-SOURCING Project, this chapter looks towards the future, reasoning that the knowledge and experience from the past decades need to be now consolidated by agreeing to a framework on how responsible sourcing approaches are developed, improved, and especially implemented. The framework allows decision-makers to step back from the detailed aspects of individual approaches and consolidate what they aim to achieve and how. The chapter framework requires stakeholders to consider a process where duty-bearers ensure policies, processes, and compliance mechanisms exist to deliver the environmental, social, and economic rights, as prioritised by stakeholders who are impacted by the activities within a mineral supply chain. This requires meaningful and inclusive participation and equal access to decision-making; accountability and a level playing field and transparency and access to information. While different stakeholders may take different paths to achieve this, it is essential that they share a common vision for responsible sourcing practices.