HARP Seminar, presented by Dr Mohsen Gul: "SMEs at the frontline of just transition"

Abstract

There is no net-zero transition without SMEs. They account for over 95 per cent of firms and 60–70 per cent of employment . SMEs play a pivotal role in sectors at the forefront of the climate transition, such as energy, transport, agriculture and manufacturing. While the public discourse often highlights large extractive and power generation companies as the primary players in the climate transition, it is crucial to understand that SMEs are deeply embedded in these sectors and their supply chains. Their role is not just peripheral; they are often the innovators, suppliers and service providers that enable the larger corporations to function. As such, any meaningful transition to a net-zero economy must involve SMEs, not only because of their sheer number but also due to their significant influence in sectors that are critical to achieving climate goals. Financial institutions have an opportunity to define their approach to financing the just transition and forge stronger bonds with their client base.

Short Bio on Presenter: Dr Mohsen Gul is a senior project manager at the Cambridge Institute of Sustainability Leadership at the University of Cambridge (UK), working in the sustainable finance team. Mohsen has over a decade of experience working in multilateral development organisations, including as a senior climate innovation specialist at the Asian Development Bank and senior technical advisor for the United Nations Development Programme.