Käkikuu Blog

kestävyysraportointi, vastuullisuusraportti

The New Era of Sustainability Reporting for SMEs

Sustainability reporting has become an increasingly central part of business operations. While large companies have long been expected to report on their activities related to the environment, social issues, and governance (ESG), small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will soon have their own voluntary sustainability reporting guideline, the VSME (Voluntary Standard for non-listed Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises). This guideline provides SMEs with a Read more

By Jukka K. Niemi, ago
Yrityksen vastuullisuustyön strateginen johtaminen

Strategic Management of a Company’s Sustainability Work

A company’s sustainability work, at its best, is comprehensive, strategic, and impactful actions that integrate ethical, economic, social, and environmental considerations into the core of its business. It goes beyond mere compliance with laws and regulations and becomes proactive and innovative work that creates value for the company, its stakeholders, and society. Strategic management of sustainability work is key to ensuring the company’s long-term success and sustainable development. Read more

By Jukka K. Niemi, ago
yritysvastuu, sidosryhmätyö

The Human Element at the Core of Stakeholder Engagement in SME Sustainability Efforts

In SMEs, sustainability efforts are a broad and multifaceted process that requires careful planning and precise resource management. A key part of this work is stakeholder engagement, which forms the foundation for the company's sustainable and impactful business development. Identifying, analyzing, and actively engaging with stakeholders are crucial in creating long-term value for the company and its stakeholders. Read more

By Jukka K. Niemi, ago
Viherpesu, Green Claim, yritysvastuu, vastuullisuus

Key Content of the EU Green Claims Directive and Its Impacts on Consumers and SMEs

With the Green Claims Directive approved by the European Parliament in February 2024, the EU aims to put an end to greenwashing and provide consumers with more reliable information about the sustainability and environmental friendliness of products. Greenwashing refers to the practice of misleading consumers into believing that a product or service is more environmentally friendly than it actually is. The directive seeks to ensure that consumers can make informed, environmentally conscious choices when purchasing products and services. Read more

By Jukka K. Niemi, ago
Kaksoisolennaisuusanalyysi

Double Materiality Analysis in SMEs According to the CSRD Directive

The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and its associated double materiality analysis have introduced new requirements and opportunities for companies' sustainability efforts. While the directive primarily applies to large companies, SMEs can also benefit from applying its principles. This article examines what double materiality analysis is and what it practically means for SMEs that are not subject to the directive's regulations. Read more

By Jukka K. Niemi, ago
yritysvastuu, vastuullisuus, Rebound-ilmiö

The Rebound Effect in Sustainability Work

Sustainability work refers to actions aimed at reducing environmental impacts and improving economic, social, and ecological sustainability. This work can be carried out at all levels—from individuals and communities to entire societies. The so-called rebound effect refers to a situation where the benefits achieved through sustainability efforts are partially or entirely offset. In this blog post, I will discuss the rebound effect, how it manifests, its impact on sustainability work, and ways to manage it. Read more

By Jukka K. Niemi, ago
Yritysvastuu, vastuullisuustyö, vastuullisuustyön kustannukset

What Drives the Costs in a Company’s Sustainability Work?

Sustainability work is a central part of effective business for companies, yet it is often seen merely as a cost item. The costs of sustainability efforts primarily arise from investments and the use of resources. These investments may target improvements in energy efficiency, the adoption of new technologies, or the renewal of processes—all of which can significantly impact a company’s financial performance in the long term. When assessing the costs of such investments, it is also important to consider their potential risks, such as market changes, technological challenges, and shifts in legislation. Read more

By Jukka K. Niemi, ago
CSRD, ESRS, kestävä kehitys, yritysvastuu

The Chicken or the Egg?

Which came first: the company's sustainability strategy or its report? The phased implementation of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) has stirred activity especially among large companies with fewer than 500 employees, which will become subject to the reporting requirements next year. Many medium-sized companies with up to 250 employees—where the thresholds for reporting obligations are beginning to draw near—are also starting to consider the practical measures required to comply with the directive. Read more

By Jukka K. Niemi, ago
Yksinyrittäjyys, yritysvastuu

Solopreneurship – Responsibility and Freedom in the Same Package.

According to Statistics Finland, there were approximately 230,000 solo entrepreneurs in Finland in 2023. A solo entrepreneur is defined as a person who runs a business without any employees, meaning they are both the owner and the sole worker in their company. Solo entrepreneurs account for nearly 9% of all employed persons. Solo entrepreneurship is a significant factor in the national economy and a source of economic activity. Read more

By Jukka K. Niemi, ago
Vastuullisuus, yritysvastuu, resurssit, osallistaminen

Not All Wisdom Resides in Me

Entrepreneurship is interesting, challenging, and rewarding, and every entrepreneur is the best expert on their own business and operating environment. Entrepreneurs possess a great deal of wisdom, skills, and the ability to navigate various situations. An entrepreneur may have a unique perspective on their business and may – at least in their own opinion – be the most competent person in many fields. Read more

By Jukka K. Niemi, ago
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