No Net zero without SMEs

Today in Europe, 75% of our population lives in urban centres. Meanwhile, 99% of companies are SMEs. To make our economy and society net zero by 2050, we must therefore, focus our efforts on our cities and our companies.

The Covenant of Companies for Climate and Energy is a community of companies that have pledged their commitment to decarbonise their operation. Our mission statement is to help European companies, as well as those who support Europe’s business community, by offering guidance and advice in implementing emissions reduction strategies.

It has never been clearer that Europe’s energy security depends on its transition away from hydrocarbon-based energy sources. We at the Covenant of Companies believe that, together with the Smart Cities Marketplace, our initiatives are laying the foundations for this net-zero future. The Marketplace has a key function to perform in bringing the parties together who can effect positive change.

In a similar vein, the Covenant of Companies recognises those companies who want to get ahead in the race to decarbonise. Companies who fulfil their pledge will be rewarded with a ‘seal of approval’, acknowledging their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint. Furthermore, we are offering a free-of-charge programme of tailored ‘Technical Assistance’ to companies who meet certain selection criteria in order to help them to map their pathway to decarbonisation. Applications are still open until 30 September for the first instalment of this Technical Assistance programme – so if you are a company and meet our geographical selection criteria, apply now!

By Karen Clements, CCCE Project Coordinator

info@covenant-of-companies.eu