New report outlines seven principles for place-based approaches to decarbonisation for SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises). Drawing from extensive research across the UK and lessons from different sectors, it sets out policy-focused recommendations for achieving transformative change in SME climate action.
The SME net-zero policy challenge
In a new report published today the UK Energy Research Centre outlines seven principles for harnessing the potential of place-based actions and cross-cutting challenges. These principles focus both on the potential strengths of place-based organisations as facilitators and coordinators of action, especially their potential to engage with SMEs with different characteristics, and on possibilities to ensure a voice for SMEs within wider change programmes, such as new transport and energy infrastructure provision.
The report also sets out challenges for place-based organisations to move beyond existing practices to achieve more transformational change, including working with a wider range of organisations to engage with ‘harder-to-reach’ SMEs. Finally, it explores the limits to place-based action and sets out principles for operating in the context of national and international policy, as well as sector-focused initiatives.
More information and the full report is available on the UKERC website
