Unlocking Green Finance for Small Businesses: Inside the EU’s SME Sustainable Finance Standard Proposal
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are at the heart of Europe’s economy and climate ambitions—yet they remain underserved by current sustainable finance frameworks. Recognizing this gap, the EU Platform on Sustainable Finance has published a new report proposing a dedicated SME Sustainable Finance Standard to simplify access to green funding for smaller businesses.
Understanding the EU’s CSRD Omnibus Proposal: What Companies Need to Know and How to Act
The EU Omnibus proposal introduces significant changes to sustainability regulations, leaving businesses uncertain about their next steps. Should they pause ESG efforts or stay ahead? In this edition, we break down the key changes, risks, and strategies to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.
UK Government Report: How the EU Taxonomy Framework Affects Companies
The UK Department for Business and Trade's 2024 report explores the impact of the EU Taxonomy Framework on companies. It reveals challenges in compliance, significant reporting costs, and benefits like improved transparency and investor confidence. The findings are pivotal as the UK develops its own Green Taxonomy to support sustainable finance.
European Commission Releases EU Taxonomy FAQs
The European Commission’s newly released FAQs on the EU Taxonomy provide crucial guidance on sustainable finance, simplifying compliance with technical screening criteria, DNSH requirements, and CSRD alignment. Tailored insights for sectors and enhanced reporting clarity empower businesses, investors, and policymakers to align activities with Europe’s ambitious environmental goals.
“While directly serving their customers, companies should indirectly serve the interests of society by taking responsibility for the holistic impact of their activities. Its simply a more broad view of value creation. This is what ESG is all about.”
Hendrith Vanlon Smith Jr, CEO of Mayflower-Plymouth