SME ESG START Symposium 2024

The SME ESG START Symposium, themed “Forward Faster: Scaling SME Sustainability Through Supply Chains,” is designed to empower SMEs by addressing the growing importance of integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices into their operations. This event focuses on the pivotal role that SMEs play in sustainable supply chains and emphasizes the need for collaboration with larger corporations, policy makers, financial institutions and other stakeholders, to drive meaningful change.

The urgency for this transformation is further amplified by the tightening of international regulations on supply chain sustainability and the rising demand for corporate disclosures on supplier engagement. 

Key findings from the SME ESG Survey 2.0 demonstrate that there has been a surge in ESG Awareness: awareness among SMEs has increased almost sixfold in 18 months, from 14% in 2022 to 80% in 2024, indicating a significant shift in mindset toward sustainability. Despite this growing awareness, many SMEs do not disclose ESG data which creates a challenge in assessing supplier sustainability and building sustainable supply chains.  

Findings show that while cost savings and productivity improvements are key drivers for SME ESG adoption, many SMEs are still uncertain about the tangible benefits of ESG. Hence, sustainable procurement stands out as a powerful catalyst for scaling sustainability among SMEs.

This symposium seeks to provide a platform for knowledge sharing, practical insights on SME ESG practices, and showcasing SME success stories that demonstrate the business case for sustainability. 

Objectives:

1. To encourage SMEs to enhance the adoption of ESG and sustainable business practices, through sharing success stories.
2. To advocate for sustainable procurement practices and encourage stakeholders to extend ESG considerations throughout the supply chain.

If you require further information, kindly contact crystal.yipyl@ungcmalaysia.org