An online system for incorporating social responsibility management methods was one of the highlights of a CIBJO conference held at the United Nations.
The event saw industry leaders, senior United Nations officials, and representatives of UN-affiliated organizations gather to discuss the commitment of the jewellery and gemstone business to facilitate sustainable development in the countries and regions in which it is active.
“Today’s gathering is meant to emphasize that, as a responsible business community, we must focus not only on protecting the chain of distribution and consumer confidence, but also on fulfilling our social and economic commitment to our stakeholders and the communities in which they live,” said CIBJO president Gaetano Cavalieri.
“When, as individual companies and organizations, we assess how successful we are in implementing responsible practices, we also need to consider how we have contributed to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals and the Sustainable Development Goals post 2015.”
Speakers emphasized the shift within the United Nations regarding the business sector.
“While we cannot ignore the fact the private sector may at times have a negative impact upon the society, it also has a capacity to bring about significant positive change,” said Melissa Powell, head of strategy and partnerships and business for peace at the UN Global Compact Office.
“And we are not only talking about opportunities created through investments of financial capital, but also of skills and experience.”
