In an era of global supply chains, corporate policies increasingly speak in highly compelling terms: sustainability, responsible sourcing, zero deforestation, respect for human rights, free, prior and informed consent (FPIC), traceability, transparency, and continuous improvement. This language matters because it reflects a company’s moral and strategic direction. However, having a policy does not automatically mean that it is being implemented in practice.

The fundamental challenge lies in the gap between what is stated and what can actually be demonstrated. A company may have an excellent policy, but without clearly mapping obligations, conducting risk assessments, assigning responsibilities, establishing operational controls, maintaining auditable data, providing grievance mechanisms, conducting audits, implementing corrective actions, and carrying out management reviews, such commitments can easily remain mere declarations. Conversely, a well-organized administrative system does not necessarily produce an effective policy if its objectives fail to address real-world issues.

This is why an approach is needed that examines two dimensions simultaneously. First, does the company have a system capable of managing compliance? Second, do the policies managed through that system actually generate relevant outcomes for the environment, communities, and supply chains? This is where ISO 37301:2021 and William N. Dunn’s policy evaluation framework can be brought together.

This paper presents a practical approach to assessing three areas of commitment that are highly relevant to natural resource-based sectors: sustainability, FPIC, and responsible sourcing traceability. This framework is not an ISO 37301 certification instrument, but rather a professional, evidence-based evaluation tool that can be used for due diligence, supplier assessments, corporate accountability, independent reviews, or the development of corrective action plans.

Download the full document here. (Indonesian)