A detailed look at sustainability data collection with respondents, exploring the extent to which the surveyed companies have used data and digitalizationFIGURE 4 Building the capability for automated data collection is an important enabler, as the principle that “you cannot improve what you do not measure” remains particularly true in manufacturing. Connecting power meters to data aggregation software is one illustration of how digitalization enables more efficient and accurate data capture. By integrating sensors, edge- layer controls and manufacturing software, businesses can automate data collection across almost any process, leading to improved production oversight and operational performance when deployed effectively. The path to digitalizing operations varies by process, with different variables and data collection methods. Solution providers often offer free learning resources to guide the modernization of systems through digitalization.16 Once a digitalization strategy is in place, SMEs can work with distributors and system integrators to select and implement solutions, using preferred partner lists or peer networks for recommendations. In Section 4, examples of network resources are highlighted for reference. Following post-implementation monitoring and incorporating lessons learned, companies can scale successful projects across additional operations to drive further process improvements. Carbon calculators and the reporting tool designed for SMEs and mid-sized companies BOX 2 The SME Climate Hub offers smaller firms a suite of free, user-friendly tools to help SMEs begin measuring their carbon emissions across Scopes 1, 2 and 3 in various scenarios and create annual GHG emissions reports with the tailored template originated from CDP’s framework. The tools include: –A Small Business Carbon Calculator for businesses with 1–50 employees at a single site, enabling emissions estimation with basic operational data –An Advanced Business Carbon Calculator for companies with multiple sites, providing a detailed and auditable emissions measurement tool –A Scope 3 Specific Calculator converting procurement data into accurate Scope 3 emissions information, helping businesses address supply chain emissions –The SME Reporting Tool as a free online platform to enable smaller businesses to create annual climate reports, with a template tailored for them and originated from CDP’s Climate Disclosure Framework for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Source: Consultation with SME Climate Hub; SME Climate Hub. Calculate your business emissions. https://smeclimatehub. org/start-measuring/; SME Climate Hub. Report your progress. https://smeclimatehub.org/report-your-progress/Sour ce: Survey conducted by the SME Sustainability Accelerator of the W orld Economic Forum0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%We monitor energy usage at the site level We monitor energy usage at the pr ocess level We monitor other resources usage, e.g. water, raw materials at the site level We monitor other resources usage, e.g. water, raw materials at the process level We are able tocommunicate carbon footprint data tocustomers We are collecting carbon footprint data from our suppliers No, wedo nothave easy access to sustainability data in any form Sustainability Meets Growth: A Roadmap for SMEs and Mid-Sized Manufacturers 15

Sustainability Meets Growth 2025