In 2015, the United Nations introduced 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to tackle some of the world’s biggest problems, like climate change, inequality, and access to clean water. These goals set a framework for making the world a better place by 2030. While they were created for countries to work towards, many businesses—big and small—are taking action to help meet these goals.
If you’re running a small or medium-sized business (SME), you might wonder why you should care about the SDGs. Here’s why: customers, employees, and even governments are all paying more attention to sustainability. If you align your business with these goals, you’re more likely to stay competitive and attract the right partners, clients, and talent.
What exactly are the SDGs?
The SDGs are 17 targets set by the UN that focus on improving life for everyone around the globe. These goals aim to tackle big challenges like Climate Action, Gender Equality, Clean Water and Sanitation, and Sustainable Communities. Governments and businesses are being encouraged to work together to make progress on these goals.
Examples of big companies using the SDGs
Some of the world’s largest businesses are already integrating the SDGs into their strategies because they know it’s good for both their reputation and their bottom line.
- Unilever: Known for brands like Dove and Ben & Jerry’s, Unilever has embedded sustainability into their business. They focus on goals like Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Climate Action (SDG 13). These efforts haven’t just reduced their environmental impact—they’ve also increased sales. In fact, Unilever’s most sustainable brands are driving the company’s growth.
- Microsoft: Microsoft is working towards Climate Action (SDG 13) by committing to become carbon negative by 2030. This means they’ll not only reduce their carbon emissions but also remove more carbon than they produce. Their strong commitment to sustainability has made them a preferred choice for customers and investors who care about the environment.
- IKEA: IKEA is aligning with several SDGs, including Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11) and Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7). They’ve pledged to use 100% renewable or recycled materials by 2030. This not only helps the planet but also appeals to eco-conscious customers who are willing to pay for products that have less of an environmental impact.
Why SME Businesses should care
Even though your business might not be as big as Unilever or Microsoft, you can still benefit from aligning with the SDGs. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth your time and effort:
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Staying Competitive
Many large companies are already working towards these goals and expect their suppliers and partners to do the same. If your small business is part of a larger company’s supply chain, showing progress towards sustainability can help you win contracts or maintain existing relationships. For example, if you want to partner with IKEA, they’ll expect you to meet their sustainability standards.
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Meeting Regulations
Governments are tightening regulations around sustainability. In the UK, the government’s goal to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050 is already leading to stricter environmental laws. Aligning your business with SDGs now can help you prepare for future regulations and avoid potential fines.
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Appealing to Customers
Consumers today, especially Millennials and Gen Z, are paying more attention to the impact businesses have on the planet. Studies show they are more likely to choose brands that prioritise sustainability. By integrating SDGs into your business, you’re showing that you care about the same things they do. This can help you stand out in a crowded market.
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Attracting Talent
Sustainability isn’t just important to customers—it matters to employees too. Younger workers, in particular, want to work for companies that align with their values. By embracing the SDGs, you’re more likely to attract top talent who are passionate about making a positive impact. This can also help improve employee retention, as workers are more likely to stay at a company that reflects their personal values.
How can SMEs get started?
You don’t have to tackle all 17 SDGs at once. The key is to start small and focus on a few goals that make the most sense for your business. For example:
- If you’re in manufacturing, you might focus on Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12) by reducing waste and improving efficiency.
- If you run a tech company, you might focus on Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9) by creating products that help other businesses or people solve sustainability challenges.
Once you’ve chosen the goals that fit your business, set realistic targets, measure your progress, and share your achievements with customers, employees, and partners. Being transparent about your sustainability journey builds trust and shows that your commitment is genuine.
Aligning with the SDGs isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good for business. As more companies, customers, and governments focus on sustainability, small businesses that take steps now will have a significant advantage in the future. Whether you want to stay competitive in your supply chain, appeal to eco-conscious customers, or attract top talent, the SDGs provide a useful framework for growth.
By starting small and focusing on what’s relevant to your business, you can make meaningful progress towards a more sustainable and profitable future.