Integrating SMEs into the Circular Economy through the CESME Project

The CESME project aims to promote the circular economy among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), helping them adopt environmentally sustainable and profitable practices. At the same time, it strengthens the role of policymakers in providing more effective support to SMEs on sustainability issues. The Environment Department of Consortis actively participated in the project, contributing its expertise and knowledge.

The Problem

Integrating SMEs into the circular economy is one of the greatest challenges of the modern era. Businesses face difficulties in adopting sustainable practices, while support policies often lack effectiveness.

The Solution

Through CESME, co-funded by the INTERREG EUROPE 2014-2020 Program, a comprehensive framework of collaboration was created among ten organizations from six EU countries (Denmark, Finland, Wales, Italy, Greece, and Bulgaria). Consortis played a dynamic role:

• Action Plan for Central Macedonia: Development of a strategic plan for integrating SMEs into the circular economy
• Contribution to the White Paper: Participation in drafting sections providing guidelines for SME sustainability
• Organization of Local Meetings: Support and coordination of the project’s Local Support Group
• Interregional Collaboration: Participation in the partner meeting in Finland, fostering the exchange of knowledge and best practices
• Green Profile Assessment: Application of a tool to evaluate the return on investment of SMEs in green practices

Benefits

The participation of Consortis in the CESME project provided multiple benefits for SMEs and support policies:

• Adoption of Circular Practices: SMEs gained tools and strategies to reduce their environmental footprint
• Increased Competitiveness: Sustainable investments helped businesses improve their efficiency
• Policy Strengthening: Policymakers acquired strategies to provide more effective support to SMEs
• Transnational Cooperation: Strengthened collaboration and knowledge exchange among EU countries
• CESME highlights the importance of cooperation in transitioning to the circular economy, equipping SMEs with the tools and strategies they need to operate more sustainably and effectively