SMALL and medium enterprises (SMEs) and supply chains have something crucial in common – they can have an enormous impact on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
An estimated 80% of global trade passes through supply chains, while SMEs make up 90% of businesses and account for 50% of total employment worldwide, according to the United Nations Global Compact.
Additionally, it is reported that SMEs make up 90% of businesses and account for 50% of total employment worldwide. Nearly 40% of gross domestic product (GDP) in emerging economies are derived from SMEs.
Suffice to say, SMEs hold the potential to drive global sustainability progress and inclusive growth – especially if they align their supply chain practices with sustainability.
