80% of Companies Dont Know If Their Products Contain Conflict Minerals

Manufacturing used to be highly vertically integrated in the U.S. For example, Fords River Rouge plant not only assembled cars but also made its own steel, glass, fabrics, power, and cement on-site. But since outsourcing has become an increasingly common approach to cutting costs, many producers now rely heavily on globally dispersed supply chains. For example, Apple works with at least 200 suppliers and 242 smelters and refineries across the world. There are similar stories in the electronics industry, pet food, pharmaceuticals, and even national security. Its no wonder so many consumers have no idea where their favorite brands come from.

80% of Companies Dont Know If Their Products Contain Conflict Minerals Academic Article