At EBS, we believe in equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools to build not just profitable, but also sustainable and responsible ventures. Startups are at the forefront of innovation, yet they face a unique challenge: how to measure future environmental and social impact when there is no historical data to go by.
We are happy to announce our participation in developing an Environmental Impact Assessment Toolkit to empower startup support organisations in collaboration with the Estonian Cleantech Association, Startup Estonia, and the Estonian Business and Innovation Agency.
Traditional Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks are built for established corporations with years of data. They look backwards. Startups, by their nature, are forward-looking; their business models and their impact are still hypotheses. This toolkit fills that critical gap.The need has never been more urgent.
Today's startups must be prepared to answer tough questions from:
- customers who demand sustainable supply chains
- investors, especially impact funds, require robust environmental performance data
- public funders, like the EU, are increasingly tying grants to positive climate action
- regulators who are setting new standards for environmental accountability.
Our involvement in this project was a natural fit for EBS's mission. We contributed our expertise in business modelling and sustainable management to help create a framework that is both academically sound and practical for early-stage companies. We are committed to bridging the gap between business theory and the real-world challenges faced by entrepreneurs, ensuring that sustainability is integrated into a company's DNA from day one.
The toolkit provides a clear, step-by-step process for any startup support organisation.
Inside, you'll find:
- Clear definitions of key concepts like ESG, SDGs, and the circular economy.
- A structured approach to help startups hypothesise their environmental impact.
- Templates and tools for estimating GHG reductions and aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Practical guidance on how to effectively communicate this impact to stakeholders.
This toolkit, supported by the European Regional Development Fund, is more than just a document; it's a step towards a future where every new business can build its strategy with sustainability at its core. We invite our partners in the ecosystem—incubators, accelerators, and mentors—to download the toolkit and join us in empowering the next wave of green innovation.
Any questions and comments are welcome and can be addressed to: hira.malik@ebs.ee
