Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the lifeblood of economies worldwide, contributing significantly to job creation and innovation, representing 90% of businesses worldwide and supporting the livelihoods of over 2 billion people. However, their collective environmental impact is substantial. It is crucial for SMEs to integrate sustainability into their operations to not only contribute to global climate goals but also to ensure their long-term viability.
MENA Impact is proud to announce its membership in the SME Climate Hub. Launched at COP28, the SME Climate Hub for MENA is a collaborative initiative between the COP28 UAE Presidency and the global SME Climate Hub.
The SME Climate Hub is a global initiative designed to mainstream climate action within the SME community. Launched in partnership with We Mean Business Coalition, Exponential Roadmap Initiative, and the United Nations’ Race to Zero campaign, the SME Climate Hub aims to enable SMEs to build resilient, future-proof businesses. By committing to halve emissions by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050 or sooner, SMEs can join the global effort to combat climate change.
What’s In It for Business?
- Reduce Costs: Manage resources efficiently to benefit both your business and the planet.
- Operational Sustainability: Build resilience against climate-related damage, disruptions, and closures.
- Risk Reduction: Keep insurance and lending fees affordable, and stay attractive to investors.
- Grow Your Business and Brand: Join a network of like-minded businesses, gain opportunities to grow your brand, and attract new customers.
How does it Work?
- Commit
Signal your commitment to climate action and take the first steps towards halving your emissions before 2030 and becoming net zero by 2050 or sooner. Recognize the threat climate change poses to the economy, nature, and society, and commit to:- Halve greenhouse gas emissions before 2030
- Achieve net zero emissions before 2050
- Disclose progress on a yearly basis
In doing so, businesses are recognized by the United Nations Race to Zero campaign, joining a global mission shared by governments, businesses, cities, regions, and universities.
- Take Action
You can calculate your emissions with the Business Carbon Calculator and take a free course on small business climate action with the Climate Fit Education Course to get help making your plan.
By publicly committing to cutting emissions, you can get recognized with the SME Climate Hub badge. You can also use Action Guides to make high-impact changes and access sector-specific video courses.
Additionally, you can report your emissions annually as part of the SME Climate Commitment and create your climate report using the reporting tool.
- Access Support
Through partnerships with corporate leaders, governments, and financial institutions, the SME Climate Hub helps unlock additional benefits to support your net zero journey.
Why Did We Join?
At MENA Impact, our mission is to empower organizations and individuals for impact in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. As the first impact platform uniting the MENA impact ecosystem, we offer tailored sustainability programs, educational content, and impactful events. Our deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in the region allows us to deliver solutions that create the greatest possible impact.
We believe that collective action is key to driving meaningful change. By joining the SME Climate Hub, we reaffirm our dedication to sustainability and our commitment to supporting SMEs in the MENA region.
Together, we can pave the way for a better future, ensuring that our businesses thrive while protecting our planet.
