What is the Green Alliance?

The Green Alliance is a well measured response to the fragmented sustainability landscape Asia Pacific economies are currently navigating. Across nations, we encounter diverse standards, regulations, and approaches to sustainability. This diversity, while reflective of local priorities and contexts, creates a significant challenge, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Founding members of the Asia Pacific Green Alliance (APAC-GA)

The Asia Pacific Green Alliance, which was launched in Singapore on 19th January 2024, is a collaboration between the SMF, CACCI, the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA), and the China Council for Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT). The APAC-GA is co-chaired by the founding members, the SMF and CACCI.

#1: The focus on SMEs.

SMEs account for the majority of businesses worldwide and are important contributors to job creation and global economic development. They represent about 90% of businesses and more than 50% of employment worldwide. But despite their positive contribution to the economy they also play a key role in climate change. SMEs can contribute to up to 50% of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. But unlike their larger counterparts like multinational or listed companies, SMEs often lack the resources or expertise to adapt and thrive amid these varying sustainability demands and legislation around the world.

The APAC-GA aims to equip SMEs with the skills, knowledge, and support to take on the climate change challenge. Otherwise, we won’t move the needle. By leveraging the collective voice of SMEs, we will advocate for regulations that not only benefit the environment but also create a conducive ecosystem for SMEs to thrive sustainably.

#2: The focus on building capability & capacity

Most people, including business owners, know that they want to take action on climate change but often just don’t know where to start. This initiative is a significant step towards democratising sustainability. By providing SMEs with the tools and resources they need to measure and reduce their carbon emissions, we are ensuring that sustainability is not just reserved for large corporations with significant resources.

It levels the playing field and empowers smaller businesses to contribute to a greener future. It will also help large businesses by providing suppliers along their supply chain with green credentials. In recognition of the ever-evolving nature of global sustainability standards, the APAC Green Alliance will remain dynamic and adaptable. It will continuously update the various standards to stay in step with international developments and foster cross-border recognition.

Enhancing the capability and capacity of SMEs for sustainable development is not just a feel-good initiative; it’s a necessity for the future of our planet and our economies. By focusing on capability and capacity, we ensure that SMEs are not left behind in the global shift towards sustainability.

#3: The focus on relationships and collaboration

One country cannot solve this challenge alone. Focusing on relationships and collaboration is vital for launching the Asia-Pacific Green Alliance as it leverages the diverse strengths and resources of the region’s nations. The Asia-Pacific region, characterised by varying economies, cultures, and environmental challenges, demands a unified approach to effectively combat climate change and promote sustainable practices. The Green Alliance is an invitation that extends to all Chambers of Commerce and Business Associations to join this growing movement. Our collective effort will be focused on nurturing sustainable growth among SMEs across the APAC region.

#4: The focus on investing in the long-term

The Green Alliance is the work we do today, to create a better tomorrow. Focusing on long-term investments is crucial for the successful launch of the Asia-Pacific Green Alliance, as it underscores a commitment to sustainable development and environmental resilience. By prioritising long-term over short-term gains, the Asia-Pacific Green Alliance can ensure that its initiatives are not only effective in the immediate future but also contribute to a lasting positive impact on the environment and the economies of its member nations.

This Alliance is integral to building a resilient, sustainable future for the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. This can’t exist without building the next generation of leaders to build upon the work we create today.