Sustainability in the supply chain: a strategic model for monitoring and improving the sustainability performance of non-paint suppliers at BOSS paints in line with the CSRD legislation
During my internship at BOSS paints, I investigated how a company can embed sustainability not only within its own organisation, but throughout its entire supply chain. The reason for this was the new European CSRD legislation, which requires companies to report transparently on their environmental, social, and governmental impact. I wanted to demonstrate that sustainability can also be measurable, manageable, and strategically deployable within an SME. I developed a digital supplier score model that enables BOSS paints to objectively evaluate the sustainable performance of its non-paint suppliers (such as packaging, brushes, tools, and logistics). The questionnaire, structured around topics such as the environment, ethics, and sustainable purchasing, was translated into four languages and sent to 124 suppliers. The responses were automatically processed in an Excel and Power BI model with weighted formulas, resulting in transparent sustainability scores for each supplier.
How this bachelor's thesis contributes to sustainability?
My final project is more than just an academic exercise: it has a concrete impact within BOSS paints and its suppliers. Thanks to the model developed, the company can now assign sustainability scores to each supplier and use them for future purchases. This makes sustainability a structural part of the purchasing policy.
During my research, I engaged with dozens of suppliers. These conversations had a direct awareness-raising and activating effect: suppliers began to think about energy, transport, and ethics themselves, and some took the first steps toward a formal sustainability plan.
I also carried out a CO₂ baseline measurement of incoming transport. By analysing data on warehouse locations, delivery frequencies, and vehicle types, I calculated the total emissions for 2024. BOSS paints is now using these insights to draw up reduction strategies and provide targeted support to suppliers.
The social relevance of my work therefore lies in the fact that it changes behavior and decision-making. By linking data to concrete action, my project contributes to a transparent and climate-conscious supply chain, in line with the European Green Deal.
Thesis by
Xander Vansteenkiste - bachelor's degree in Business Management, specialisation in SME Management
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