Navigating the Green Tide: Small Business Strategies for COP28 and Beyond

10x Industry

Mita Srinivasan
10x Industry
Published:

Navigating the Green Tide: Small Business Strategies for COP28 and Beyond

With the advent of COP28, a fresh lexicon of sustainability buzzwords will permeate the discourse, shaping the future of business operations. As a small business owner, it's essential to decode these terms and understand their implications for your enterprise. Kate Hardcastle MBE, UK Broadcaster, Sustainability Champion and founder of ‘Buy Smarter, Buy Greener’, breaks it down so it makes sense.

As the world turns its collective gaze towards the upcoming COP28 summit, the drumbeat for sustainable practices grows ever louder, echoing across industries from global conglomerates to local corner shops. For small businesses, this focus on sustainability isn't just about keeping pace with environmental standards—it's about uncovering opportunities in a changing landscape. 

The climate conversation has matured and small businesses find themselves at a crossroads of challenge and potential. This is a moment to embrace a vision that marries profitability with planetary health — a journey with hurdles, certainly, but also hidden gems of opportunity.

With the advent of COP28, a fresh lexicon of sustainability buzzwords will permeate the discourse, shaping the future of business operations. As a small business owner, it's essential to decode these terms and understand their implications for your enterprise.

Here are ten COP28 buzzwords decoded for small business strategy.

1. Net-Zero Transition: For small businesses, 'Net-Zero' isn't just a target for nations; it's a compass for operational strategy. It means adopting energy-efficient technology and exploring renewable energy, ultimately leading to cost savings and brand strengthening.

2. Circular Economy: This phrase emphasises  away from the traditional 'take-make-waste' approach. Embrace this by reducing waste, recycling materials, and offering repair services, turning sustainability into a unique selling point. How can you bring more circularity into your business - many start ups in re-commerce and rental are leading the way here.

3. Climate Finance: A keyword at COP28, climate finance refers to funding necessary for a low-carbon world. As a small business, tapping into green loans or grants can be a game-changer, enabling sustainability investments that may otherwise seem daunting. How can this boost your opportunity for growth?

4. Green Tech Innovations: Staying abreast of 'Green Tech' means competitive edge and efficiency. Small businesses can lead by adopting new eco-friendly technologies that often reduce costs and attract a growing demographic of eco-conscious consumers.

5. Carbon Trading: While primarily a big-business game, understanding carbon trading can benefit small enterprises by exploring the market for carbon credits, potentially opening up new revenue streams.

6. Adaptation and Resilience: Resilience planning helps small businesses weather the physical and economic storms of climate change. This means preparing for extreme weather events and economic shifts due to climate policies.

7. Sustainable Supply Chains: Sourcing products and materials responsibly is not just ethical; it’s expected. Scrutinising your supply chain for sustainability can boost your reputation and ensure business continuity as regulations tighten.

8. Biodiversity: COP28 will spotlight nature's role in climate stability. Small businesses can contribute by adopting practices that protect natural habitats, which can resonate strongly with customers and differentiate your brand. Alternative materials and sourcing opportunities should be considered with commercial reality in mind.

9. ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance): ESG criteria are becoming a lens through which businesses are evaluated. Small firms that integrate ESG principles can attract investments and partnerships, and improve their operational standards. Even SME’s should consider a solid ESG plan - and share this with stakeholders.

10. Just Transition: Ensuring the economic shift doesn't leave workers behind, 'Just Transition' is about fairness. For small businesses, this means investing in employee training for green skills, aiding community development, and fostering inclusive growth.

As a small business owner, these buzzwords from COP28 aren't just jargon; they represent a roadmap for growth and sustainability. Understanding and integrating them into your business model can set you apart, opening doors to new markets, financial incentives, and a position as a leader in the green economy. Let COP28 be the catalyst for your small business to innovate, adapt, and thrive in a sustainable future.

About the author

Kate Hardcastle MBE, UK Broadcaster, Sustainability Champion and founder of ‘Buy Smarter, Buy Greener’, is a TV business and consumer expert who has created and featured on BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, Sky, CNN and Forbes.