Sustainability can feel overwhelming for small and medium-sized businesses (SME’s). Between shifting expectations, changing regulations, and limited time and resources, it’s easy to delay action. But often, it’s the myths—not the reality—that keep businesses stuck.
Here are 10 of the most common sustainability myths we hear from SMEs, and the truth behind them.
Myth 1: “Sustainability is only for big companies”
Reality: While large corporates face more public pressure, SMEs are increasingly in the spotlight. Supply chains, customers, and funders now want clear evidence of sustainability from businesses of all sizes. SMEs make up over 99% of the UK business population—your impact, collectively, is enormous.
Myth 2: “It’s too expensive and time-consuming”
Reality: Many sustainability actions save money—through energy efficiency, reduced waste, or improved procurement. You don’t need to spend thousands or hire specialists to start making progress. In fact, doing nothing may cost more in missed opportunities or inefficiency.
Myth 3: “We don’t know enough to get started”
Reality: You don’t need to be an expert. Start with what you know—your energy bills, travel habits, or materials usage—and build from there. A clear, simple first step is far more valuable than a perfect but delayed plan. Progress builds confidence.
Myth 4: “Our customers don’t care”
Reality: Some might not yet—but more and more do. Public procurement contracts, corporate buyers, and even retail consumers are asking for sustainability data. Having clear policies and actions in place makes your business more attractive and more resilient.
Myth 5: “We already recycle, so we’re covered”
Reality: Recycling is important, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. A well-rounded approach considers energy use, supply chains, travel, equity, governance, and more. Recycling alone doesn’t meet the growing expectations in tenders, funding applications, or ESG reporting.
Myth 6: “It’s just a trend—it’ll pass”
Reality: Sustainability is here to stay. It’s no longer a ‘nice to have’; it’s a core part of risk management, recruitment, investor expectations, and long-term growth. Businesses that treat it as a strategic priority are better placed to adapt and thrive.
Myth 7: “We’re too small to make a difference”
Reality: Every action matters. Whether it’s switching suppliers, reducing packaging, or talking to staff about changes—they all add up. Smaller businesses are often more agile, making them ideal candidates for trialling and embedding new practices.
Myth 8: “We’ll wait until a client asks for it”
Reality: By the time clients ask, it might be too late to respond competitively. Businesses that prepare now can win work from competitors who haven’t. It also shows leadership and positions you as a credible partner.
Myth 9: “It’s all about carbon, and we can’t do much there”
Reality: Carbon is important, but it’s not the only measure. Many SMEs can take meaningful action on transport, procurement, social value, diversity, or community impact—even if they don’t have large energy use. These all count towards a sustainable business.
Myth 10: “We don’t need a policy or plan—it’s just common sense”
Reality: Many SMEs are doing good things but not documenting them. A clear sustainability policy and action plan helps with tenders, grant applications, staff engagement, and setting direction. Without it, you risk missing out or being seen as inconsistent.
What to Do Next
These myths are understandable—but they’re also outdated. With growing expectations from clients, regulators, and investors, SMEs that act now are better placed to grow, win work, and manage risks.
You don’t need to do everything at once. Start with something manageable. Talk to your team. Review your supply chain. Look at your energy bills. Then build on that.
At Sustainable X, we help SMEs take clear, confident steps—whatever stage you’re at. Whether it’s writing a sustainability policy, identifying easy wins, or building a roadmap, we make it doable.
Want to chat through where to begin?
Book a free 15-minute call to explore how we can help.