The supply chain as a catalyst for ESG factors. An analysis of the relationship between Apple Inc's sustainability performance and its suppliers and customers.

Abstract

The growing awareness of climate change and the scarcity of natural resources make it necessary to initiate a global process of ecological transition. The extraordinary events of recent years have underlined the urgency of stepping up efforts towards sustainability and acting according to the fundamental principles of transparency, equality and inclusion. Governments, organizations and stakeholders are putting pressure on companies to integrate sustainability into their business objectives and recognize the link between finance and sustainability. The ecological transition is essential for companies that want to increase their long-term value and play a leading role in the international economic landscape. This work aims to investigate whether market-leading companies with high market capitalization and market share can act as drivers of sustainable choices and environmental practices within supply chain companies, complementing governments and organizations. Specifically, the study aims to assess whether Apple Inc, one of the major technology companies recognized for its merits in the field of sustainability, has an impact on the sustainable performance of its supply chain and in what way. To pursue this objective, a methodology based on the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) was applied. The use of the CAPM enabled a systematic analysis of the relationship between Apple Inc.'s ESG indicators and those of its suppliers and customers, both globally and specifically for the environmental, social and governance pillars. In this application, Apple assumes the role of market in the traditional model, as it represents the central hub of its supply chain. By estimating and evaluating beta, Apple's actual ability to act as a catalyst for sustainable decisions within its supply chain was quantified and analyzed.