C-plus-C
SMEs don’t need to launch their sustainability management with a host of metrics and a large budget; instead, they should start with targeted initiatives that align with their available resources.
7-Point-Agenda for an SME Launching Sustainability Initiatives:
1. Consensus and decision by management regarding the launch of initiatives, the desired goals, and the available resources.
2. Appointment of a lead person who reports directly to management. (This does not have to be a full-time position—0.1 to 0.2 FTE may be sufficient.)
3. Create a rough plan of activities for the first year—including identifying the necessary competencies. (Build internal expertise only where needed in day-to-day operations. Purchase external expertise only as standalone solutions, not as expensive all-in-one packages.)
4. Inform employees about the launch of the initiative, the lead coordinator, and the full support provided by management; outline the general plan for the first year; and secure the commitment of department heads to provide topic-specific support to the lead coordinator.
5. Objective materiality analysis to focus on topics relevant to the company.
6. Setting goals for the prioritized topics (3 to 5 topics are sufficient to start with) and creating topic-specific timelines.
7. Getting started, with a willingness to learn from experience and make adjustments along the way.
Conclusion: An SME is best advised to launch its sustainability initiatives by designating responsible parties and resources, creating an initial one-year plan, informing employees, and conducting an objective materiality analysis.