The time needed to complete the Higg Facility Environmental Module (FEM) can vary based on the availability of the required data and information. On average, facilities should expect to spend between 3 to 6 weeks completing the module. This timeframe includes internal discussions and review processes. It is recommended that facilities review all the questions in the module before starting to better understand the type of information and data required.
August 08, 2024
In today's competitive global market, where sustainability and environmental performance are paramount, the Higg Index stands as a vital tool for the apparel and footwear industries. Developed by the Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC), the Higg Index provides a standardized method for measuring and evaluating environmental performance across the supply chain. This suite of self-assessment tools enables facilities to differentiate themselves from peers and competitors effectively.
In this article, we will explore the key components and benefits of the Higg Index, the verification process, and practical tips for getting started. This comprehensive guide is written by Aravindan B, Lead Auditor at SGS Gulf Limited, UAE, to help you understand how the Higg Index can drive sustainability and operational excellence in your facility.
Understanding the Higg Index
The Higg Index offers a suite of self-assessment tools tailored to evaluate environmental sustainability across brands, products, and facilities. It employs practice-based, qualitative questions to help organizations assess their environmental impact and drive improvements.
The Higg Facility Environmental Module (FEM) is specifically designed to:
- Measure and Quantify: Assess and quantify the sustainability impacts of a facility.
- Reduce Redundancy: Minimize repetitive efforts in measuring and reporting sustainability performance.
- Drive Business Value: Enhance business value by identifying risks and uncovering efficiencies.
- Standardize Communication: Provide a consistent framework and language for communicating sustainability efforts to stakeholders.
Key Components of the Higg Index
The Higg Index is a comprehensive suite of tools developed to evaluate and improve the environmental performance of facilities within the apparel and footwear industries. One of its core components is the Facility Environmental Module, a self-assessment questionnaire designed to address seven critical areas of environmental impact. Here’s a closer look at each component:
Environmental Management System (EMS)
This area evaluates how well a facility manages its environmental responsibilities. It includes assessing the effectiveness of policies, procedures, and practices that support sustainable operations. Key aspects include the establishment of environmental objectives, compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and the integration of sustainability into daily operations and decision-making processes.
Energy Use and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions
This component measures a facility's energy consumption and the associated greenhouse gas emissions. Facilities are assessed on their energy efficiency practices, use of renewable energy sources, and efforts to reduce carbon footprint. Key metrics include total energy use, energy-saving initiatives, and strategies to minimize GHG emissions.
Water Use
This section focuses on the management of water resources within the facility. It examines water consumption patterns, water recycling practices, and the measures in place to reduce water usage. Facilities are encouraged to implement water-saving technologies and practices to minimize their impact on local water resources.
Wastewater/Effluent Handling
Facilities are assessed on how they manage wastewater and other effluents generated during their operations. This includes the treatment processes, disposal methods, and efforts to prevent pollution. Effective wastewater management is crucial for reducing environmental contamination and protecting water quality.
Emissions into the Air
This area evaluates the facility's control over air emissions, including pollutants and particulates released into the atmosphere. It covers the implementation of measures to reduce air pollution, such as the use of scrubbers, filters, and other emission control technologies.
Waste Management
This component assesses how a facility handles and disposes of solid waste. It includes evaluating waste reduction strategies, recycling programs, and the management of hazardous waste. Facilities are encouraged to adopt practices that minimize waste generation and maximize recycling and reuse.
Chemicals Management
This section focuses on the handling, storage, and use of chemicals within the facility. It examines practices related to the safe management of chemicals, including compliance with safety standards, proper labeling, and the reduction of hazardous substances. Facilities are encouraged to implement safer alternatives and practices to minimize the environmental impact of chemical use.
By systematically addressing these seven areas, the Higg Index helps facilities to identify strengths and weaknesses in their environmental performance, set improvement goals, and track progress over time. This holistic approach supports continuous improvement and promotes sustainable practices across the supply chain.
Verification and Transparency
Verification of a Higg Index assessment by an approved assessor like SGS enhances trust in the data and helps reduce audit fatigue. Facilities can post their verified results on the Higg.org platform, allowing for easy sharing with brands and retailers. This single verification is recognized by all SAC members, facilitating a focus on implementing improvement actions rather than repetitive audits.
When completing the Higg Facility Environmental Module (FEM), honesty and transparency are crucial. This assessment is not about passing or failing; it's a tool designed to help identify opportunities for improvement.
Here are some tips to keep in mind before starting:
- Be Conservative: If you are uncertain about whether your answer qualifies as “Yes,” it's better to take a more conservative approach and answer “Partial Yes” or “No or Unknown,” where applicable.
- Review Guidance: Utilize the guidance provided for each question to understand how to respond accurately.
- Provide Supporting Information: When selecting “Yes” or “Partial Yes” for a question, provide as much supporting information as possible in the sub-questions. You can also upload documents to offer additional evidence.
By following these tips, you can ensure a thorough and accurate completion of the Higg FEM, ultimately aiding in the identification and implementation of sustainability improvements.
SGS Higg Index Verification Solutions in the Middle East
At SGS, we offer verification of the Higg Index assessment for apparel and footwear manufacturing facilities through two methods:
Desktop Verification: Conducted offsite by an SGS assessor.
Onsite Verification: A more robust review, offering a higher level of trust to a facility’s customers, conducted by an SGS verifier who will visit the facility to review the assessment in site.
The aim of both verification methods is to have a qualified verifier assess the Higg Index score of a facility. This verified score can be used in communications with suppliers and customers to identify strengths and weaknesses and help facilities define and implement an improvement plan.
Our Higg Index verification and supplier improvement services for brands and retailers include:
- Training
- Higg Index verification and reporting
- Benchmarking of performance
- Definition of performance metrics
- Development and follow-up on improvement plans
Need Assistance? For further guidance, you can reach out to our experts today!
About SGS
We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.
C/O Horizon Djibouti Terminals Limited (HDTL),
Doraleh Container Terminal, Djibouti