This summer, Spain is being hit by successive heat waves, while storms and floods are raging in other latitudes. These events highlight the critical urgency with which we must address measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
In this crusade, companies play a crucial role due to their ability to conduct actions aimed at reducing the impact of their activity, as well as contributing to the decarbonization of the economy and the planet.
In the previous article, we talked about the First step to creating a sustainability management system for SMEs: situation diagnosis.
Through this assessment, we have been able to understand both the state of the art in the adoption of sustainability practices by the company, as well as the expectations and needs of stakeholders. With this input, we can create these action plans that move the needle towards reducing emissions, inequalities and, of course, improving the quality of life in the global environment.
Those action plans that periodically and systematically allow the company to develop continuous improvement cycles and thus ensure that the management system endures.
Developing them is not complex, and the SME is likely using methodologies and tools to carry them out in its other functional areas.
Even so, it is worth remembering some key elements for its creation:
- Define the objectives to be achieved (they will be linked to the areas for improvement found in the diagnosis).
- Establish the tasks and activities to be carried out that will achieve the proposed objectives.
- Determine the deadlines, people responsible for executing the tasks, and the costs associated with them.
- Specify the performance indicators that will achieve each objective.
- Establish mechanisms for monitoring and controlling the progress of the plan (reports, committees)
Communicating our results
Do you think the work and effort you put in should be communicated and recognized?
In my opinion, yes, absolutely. Communicating the SME's progress by integrating sustainability criteria is the essence of the transparency principle of social responsibility.
While communication about the details of the diagnosis and action plans should be handled internally, it is through the sustainability report or non-financial report, that the SME must communicate to its stakeholders the results of its performance and impact in relation to environmental, social and corporate governance aspects.
Likewise, you can report on the measures you are taking to advance certain areas of improvement you have identified and also highlight the positive value you are generating for society.
I do not want to go into more detail because for that we will have the modules of Strategic Planning and Communication of Sustainability in the 1st edition of the Sustainability Leaders Program, a Diploma of Specialization in Sustainability and Social Responsibility, available online and with a week of in-person (and networking) training in Valencia.
A comprehensive and flexible program starting October 25th, aimed at professionals like you who need practical training in sustainability.
