C 486/4
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
21.12.2022
2.10.
MSMEs with a business value proposition in the circular economy, climate, biodiversity, renewable energy and other EGD themes have an inherent incentive to explore, invest and pursue new business opportunities in those areas.
They have many opportunities, e.g. in the renovation of buildings, in the planning and construction of infrastructure, in industrial production and maintenance of equipment, in providing legal and accounting services, and in developing digital solutions.
The transition process is, to a high degree, dependent on their smart solutions, generated by the experts they employ, which underlines the importance of high-quality and relevant education, VET and constant upskilling.
2.11.
The most vulnerable group of MSMEs, that also have the highest need of information are, in turn, those who believe the EGD is just an additional piece of legislation adding to cumulative administrative burdens, putting their current business models under pressure, and limiting profitability in a business-as-usual scenario.
This highlights the fact that all MSME categories, be they vulnerable laggards, followers or leaders, require support that is different and specifically targeted towards them (2).
2.12.
Besides, in terms of capacity and preparedness, there are many differences between MSMEs in terms of the nature and magnitude of climate and environmental issues, the requirements and expectations targeted towards them, and the opportunities that open up to them.
The differences stem from various factors: the natural resource intensity of the business, the size of the enterprise, the position of the enterprise in supply chains and business ecosystems, the location of the enterprise, the types of customers, the sources of production factors, and the geographic markets of the enterprise.
2.13.
This calls for highly customised solutions and well-targeted policies and measures that take account of the differences between, say, medium-sized enterprises in manufacturing industries, enterprises operating in hospitality and retail sectors, family and traditional businesses, innovative start-ups, social economy enterprises, and crafts and liberal professions.
2.14.
Despite the many differences between MSMEs, the successful management of the green transition in every enterprise starts with proper awareness of and knowledge on topical issues and trends, which makes it possible to see the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and risks of the enterprise, and define how it wants to position itself in the green transition.
2.15.
The most concrete efforts at enterprise level are related to planning, organising and monitoring the overall business, including the production and trade of goods and services, transport and logistics, and procurement of energy, raw materials, and other production factors.
Climate and environmental aspects are also an integral element in innovation activities, in skills development and the involvement of all personnel, and in communication and cooperation with stakeholders.
3.
Policies and measures to support MSMEs under Fit for 55 3.1.
In order to be Fit for 55 and able to successfully accomplish the green transition, MSMEs must be thoroughly informed and facilitated to better understand the implications of the new and complex legislative proposals (3).
This requires wide-ranging and targeted information and awareness-raising measures, delivered in a coordinated and complementary manner by the EC and MSs, which have a crucial responsibility here.
The role of business organisations and chambers is also central in informing and supporting their members, complemented by education and training providers, regional development offices, cluster organisations, social partners and relevant CSOs.
3.1.1.
Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the EGD policies are now under open consultation in terms of schedules due to the new extraordinary circumstances, and to the EU's dependence on energy and food from Russia and Ukraine.
The EESC recognises the extraordinary circumstances and dependences, and considers that the green objectives should not be abandoned for any reason, however a logical flexibility should be given over time until the end of the crisis.
(2) (3)
Smit, S.J., SME focus — Long-term strategy for the European industrial future, EP Policy Department for Economic, Scientific and Quality of Life Policies, PE 648.776 — April 2020.
The Fit for 55 package comprises a vast range of legislative initiatives, where the final decision is subject to negotiations between the institutions.
Until this process is completed, the MSMEs can only follow partial information, and face uncertainty about the future.