The green transformation is still a key element of the European strategy aimed at achieving climate neutrality by 2050. This process will be associated with huge investments. According to Poland’s energy policy, until 2040 (PEP2040), the implementation of energy projects necessary for the decarbonization of the economy will consume up to PLN 1.6 trillion.
Not an obligation, but a strategic direction
The requirement to introduce pro -ecological changes is not limited to large companies. It also applies to a wider group of small and medium -sized enterprises.
Prepared by Santander Bank Polska in cooperation with the KPMG advisory company “Green transformation and SME – how to get a competitive advantage?” It shows that the introduction of the principles of sustainable development does not only have to be an obligation arising from the regulation. On the contrary, it can be a real added value for business. The authors indicate that entrepreneurs should approach these changes as a strategic direction that can bring lasting development, increase operational efficiency, open new markets and strengthen the company’s reputation.
The report presents practical tips on how enterprises can effectively implement sustainable activities in their business. It shows examples of strategies and tools, helping in creating products and services, as well as specific studies in cases of food, automotive or plastics companies. For some enterprises, the transformation meant thermomodernization of buildings, for others the purchase of energy -saving machines, for subsequent processing – for reuse – waste.
Financial, advisory and free tools support
– The Santander Bank Polska report shows that the SME industry has a chance to use the introduced changes to strengthen its position on the market. However, it is crucial to start acting now. For now, as our research shows, only a third of company owners intend to pursue goals related to decarbonization – he says Lech Gałkowski, member of the board of Santander Bank Polskamanaging the division of business and corporate banking. He adds, looking on the other side, the same percentage of people believe that their enterprise’s activity does not have a major impact on the climate.
– That is why education is so important. It should be shown to business that the green transformation is really profitable. Investments in sustainable development and environmentally friendly technologies can not only improve competitiveness, but also minimize the risk associated with climate regulations. Santander Bank Polska offers financial and advisory support that will allow companies to smoothly pass through this process. It also provides free tools, such as a coal trail calculator, which allows the company to estimate and generate an emission report – says Lech Gałkowski.
As the data of the National Bank of Poland show, the SME sector in Poland is currently approaching the green transformation very carefully. As much as 70 percent do not benefit from renewable energy. surveyed companies, and nearly 60 percent It does not change and does not plan to change his energy mix.
– Adaptation of sustainable practices not only strengthens social and ecological responsibility, but also opens the way to long -term success and building a competitive advantage. As key participants of global supply chains, SMEs can significantly increase their operational efficiency and strengthen the market reputation. KPMG analyzes confirm that this is a real opportunity – some companies have already noticed the potential of sustainable development and use it successfully – he says Justyna Wysocka-Golec, partner, leader of the Corporate ESG, Climate and Nature in KPMG in Poland.
Entrepreneurs should not be afraid
According to the authors of the report, sustainable development sets a number of challenges – both regulatory and market enterprises.
– Our experience shows that many enterprises are afraid of challenges related to sustainable development. Meanwhile, the report shows that this megatrend can become a lever of development – stimulates the search for innovation in products, business models or supply chain. It also helps build resistance to key environmental and social risks – he says Anna Grygiel-Tomaszewska, director at the Corporate ESG team, Climate and Nature at KPMG in Poland.
Properly conducted changes will allow small and medium -sized entrepreneurs, thanks to effective management of energy and resources, to reduce operating costs, as well as to improve competitiveness. Enterprises that adapt to the requirements of sustainable development will not only gain an advantage on the market, but also build a positive image in the eyes of consumers and investors. Changes related to green transformation can also increase the chances of small and medium -sized companies to obtain additional financial resources on preferential terms.
The presentation of the results of the report was combined for a meeting organized in Warsaw, during which entrepreneurs could, among others, listen to experts presenting the main conclusions of the report and discussions devoted to the practical aspects of energy transformation as well as a case study of green changes in Polish companies.
