C206 – Ethical Leadership
Zainab Chandna
, A – Analysis of Walmart’s Code of Conduct
Walmart’s Code of Conduct (“the Code”) covers the Company’s corporate social responsibility
(“CSR”) reasonably well. It covers both day-to-day sales associate behavior and broader
operational risks that are evident at the corporate level. Key CSR areas covered within the Code
include: (i) environmental responsibility; (ii) human rights and labour practices; and (iii)
responsible sourcing.
Within environmental responsibility, the Code explicitly notes the role of associates in
environmental protection and includes actions (e.g. recycling, reporting environmental hazards,
etc.) that can be completed to remain compliant. The Code also states Walmart’s commitment to
human rights which is exercised through the Company’s commitment to prohibiting underage or
forced labour practices. The Company operates in various jurisdictions where labour laws may
differ, however, Walmart exercises the strictest of labour approaches across its global operations.
On responsible sourcing, Walmart emphasizes safe and healthy work environments for all workers
operating within its supply chain. For example, the Company monitors its suppliers to ensure they
meet the Company’s responsible sourcing requirements.
While the Code acts as a comprehensive CSR report, it lacks measurability or goals that Walmart
can track performance against. An example of these could include, emissions targets, community
impact metrics, and annual philanthropy commitments.
A2 – Compliance with Legal Mandates
Walmart’s Code is grounded in legal compliance. Integrity at the Company is tied, to an extent, to
following laws and policies. The Code instructs associates and employees to seek guidance when
laws are stronger than the internal code of conduct.
Zainab Chandna
, A – Analysis of Walmart’s Code of Conduct
Walmart’s Code of Conduct (“the Code”) covers the Company’s corporate social responsibility
(“CSR”) reasonably well. It covers both day-to-day sales associate behavior and broader
operational risks that are evident at the corporate level. Key CSR areas covered within the Code
include: (i) environmental responsibility; (ii) human rights and labour practices; and (iii)
responsible sourcing.
Within environmental responsibility, the Code explicitly notes the role of associates in
environmental protection and includes actions (e.g. recycling, reporting environmental hazards,
etc.) that can be completed to remain compliant. The Code also states Walmart’s commitment to
human rights which is exercised through the Company’s commitment to prohibiting underage or
forced labour practices. The Company operates in various jurisdictions where labour laws may
differ, however, Walmart exercises the strictest of labour approaches across its global operations.
On responsible sourcing, Walmart emphasizes safe and healthy work environments for all workers
operating within its supply chain. For example, the Company monitors its suppliers to ensure they
meet the Company’s responsible sourcing requirements.
While the Code acts as a comprehensive CSR report, it lacks measurability or goals that Walmart
can track performance against. An example of these could include, emissions targets, community
impact metrics, and annual philanthropy commitments.
A2 – Compliance with Legal Mandates
Walmart’s Code is grounded in legal compliance. Integrity at the Company is tied, to an extent, to
following laws and policies. The Code instructs associates and employees to seek guidance when
laws are stronger than the internal code of conduct.
