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Knowledge category: Tools and methods

Resources Scanner of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency

Updated on 18.10.2022

The Resources Scanner enables organisations to discover to what extent the (bio)materials they depend on pose a potential risk to their business, to the people in their supply chains, and to the natural environment. This may, for example, relate to security of supply, conditions under which the raw materials are produced, dependence on a small number of producers, or export restrictions.

Author: Netherlands Enterprise Agency
Year of update: 2019

More information

When it comes to risks to people and the natural environment, the scanner also provides information on how to deal with such risks through International Responsible Business Conduct (IRBC) in the metals sector. IRBC is an ongoing process that primarily looks at how a company can identify, prevent and manage social and environmental risks. The information provided in the scanner can be used as a first step towards implementing risk-based due diligence as part of the IRBC efforts.

An important aspect to note is that the risk indicators in the scanner only provide an indication of potential risks. It is recommended that organisations do further research into the risks specific to the materials sourced and their supply chains.

Relevance for Circular Systemic Solutions

Given that the Resources Scanner helps identify potential risks to the business, the people in the supply chain and the natural environment, this is a valuable tool for cities and regions. It can support cities, regions and stakeholders involved in the development and implementation of Circular Systemic Solutions to identify potential risks and mitigation strategies in relation to the materials sourced and supply chains.

How to use this tool or method

By following the three steps – explore, assess and act – the user will gain insights into risks and receive action perspectives that can be used to mitigate risks in a way that aligns with the context of the business operations and goals. These action perspectives are general in nature and should be tailored to a specific situation. In addition to Dutch data, the Resources Scanner also contains import and export data from all 27 EU Member States. The user can easily switch between datasets via the flags at the top of the page.