Recent research by Argos Wityu and Boston Consulting Group has revealed a hidden opportunity for small businesses (SMEs). While many large companies are working to become more sustainable by reducing their carbon emissions, SMEs do not feel the same urgency. In fact, only 38% of all SMEs are taking measures to reduce their CO2 emissions, and even fewer have a structured plan to do so. This is surprising, as going green also facilitates financial and commercial benefits. Although overall CO2 emissions have dropped due to rising energy prices, this finding raises an important question: are SMEs aware of the significant role they can play in the sustainability transition?
What is the impact of SMEs?
SMEs are often overlooked when it comes to sustainability. This is strange, as 44% of the UK’s total CO2 emissions come from SMEs. Yet, the urgency to reduce CO2 emissions is very much felt within the SME sector. The BCG and Argos Wityu report shows that around 84% of European SMEs consider CO2 emissions an important part of sustainability, which is similar to the opinions of UK SMEs. Moreover, 60% of the SMEs interviewed see CO2 reduction as a good opportunity to stand out from their competitors.
What is stopping SMEs?
"It is evident that SMEs view reducing carbon emissions as an opportunity, but they are not acting accordingly."Setting up a carbon reduction plan is the first point of action. Why is that?The main reason lies in the financial aspect. Many SMEs find the costs simply too high to reduce CO2 emissions. When you add the personnel costs for making the actual calculations, the barrier becomes even higher. Finally, a short-term vision is also a major reason why companies postpone measuring their CO2 emissions. Since direct benefits in the short term are not tangible, SMEs are more focused on the risk of operational disruption.
How can an SME easily get started?
The path for SMEs to a sustainable future is full of challenges but consists also of great opportunities. Currently, there is often a lack of a clear plan, and they need help and knowledge to really make a difference in their sustainability journey.
Eevery understands the important role that SMEs play in tackling climate change and is ready to support these businesses in an affordable way. With practical tools and an intuitive CO2 Calculator, SMEs can measure their CO2 emissions in just an hour.
Curious about how it works? Click on this link to request a free advisory call!
