Sustainability Footprints in SMEs: Strategy and Case Studies for Entrepreneurs and Small Business

Acknowledgments

As a quality, safety, and environmental practitioner implementing management systems within a small and medium sized enterprise (SME) operational context, I was unable to source case studies that presented the business case for carbon footprint measurement. Existing case studies and research literature focused on success stories in large multinationals with access to considerable human resources and financial capital. Undeterred, I began measuring and managing the carbon footprint for Capital Cooling utilizing a free software tool from Best Footprint Forward as part of an ISO 14001 Environmental Management Certification project that indicated results that, to my delight, not only reduced carbon emissions but also generated income from waste streams such as plastic. The ability to receive payment for materials that were previously destined for landfill for a minimal investment cost, for example, the purchase of a baling machine, inspired management to embrace other sustainability initiatives such as facilitating with stakeholder engagement through support for employee volunteer activities. Although participation in voluntary schemes assisted with greenhouse gas performance benchmarking, there was limited feedback on best practices and tools required to improve sustainable performance.

Therefore, I conducted research into SMEs that were recognized environmental champions and had implemented carbon footprint measurement to understand the critical success factors necessary ...