In Spain, where small and medium-sized enterprises make up 99.80% of the business fabric, microenterprises, those with fewer than ten employees and annual revenues of less than two million euros, face significant challenges in terms of sustainability. Despite being fundamental to the national economy, a recent report indicates that only 23% of these microenterprises have implemented environmental policies, and only 18% have taken steps to reduce their energy consumption. This situation highlights the urgent need to promote sustainable practices that not only have a positive impact on the environment but also improve their competitiveness in the market.
In response to this issue, the COPADE Foundation has launched a guide that offers more than 100 recommendations designed for microenterprises to incorporate sustainable strategies. This initiative, called “Microenterprises and SDGs,” is supported by the Spanish Multisectoral Association of Microenterprises (AEMME) and the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumption, and Agenda 2030. The guide covers not only waste and emission reduction but also guidelines for establishing fair working conditions, investing in employee training, and setting clear sustainability goals.
One of the key findings highlighted by the Foundation is that, although microenterprises are aware of the importance of contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), they face multiple obstacles, including a lack of information and resources, as well as the need for specific training programs. Emphasis is placed on the relevance of public procurement policies that incorporate environmental and social criteria, as well as fiscal incentives to facilitate the adoption of sustainable practices.
The guide also emphasizes the importance of sustainability certifications, which not only allow companies to demonstrate their commitment to the environment to their customers but also improve their reputation and access to new markets. Certifications such as Fair Trade and the ASG Footprint are presented as key tools to measure and manage sustainable performance.
To promote this initiative, the Foundation has organized informative sessions in several cities in Spain, where entrepreneurs and microenterprise leaders have highlighted the usefulness of the tools offered to improve their sustainability. These actions represent a fundamental step towards transforming microenterprises into active agents of their own development and contribute to a more sustainable future for society as a whole. Additionally, COPADE continues to offer free ASG Footprint measurement services for self-employed individuals and microenterprises, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable development in the business sector.
via: MiMub in Spanish