One-Third of Dutch Small Businesses Unprepared for Climate Risks
Utrecht, Wednesday, 26 November 2025.
A RaboResearch study reveals 33% of small Dutch businesses are inadequately prepared for climate and technological risks, urging investment in sustainable practices for resilience.
Small Businesses Facing Significant Challenges
The recent RaboResearch report highlights a concerning statistic: approximately 33% of small businesses in the Netherlands are inadequately prepared to handle climate, geopolitical, and technological risks [1]. The study underscores a stark contrast with larger companies, only 14% of which report similar vulnerabilities. This discrepancy is attributed to the larger firms’ greater access to resources, enabling them to invest in long-term strategies for sustainability and innovation [1].
Importance of Sustainable Practices
Suzanne Bijkerk, the lead author of the study, emphasizes that sustainable practices and effective risk management are critical for economic resilience. She notes that small enterprises must allocate time, resources, and financial investment into climate adaptation strategies to navigate the growing challenges effectively. This approach is vital not only for environmental sustainability but also for the financial health of these businesses [1].
COP30 and Global Climate Efforts
The conclusion of COP30 on 22 November 2025, with nearly 200 countries agreeing on a final declaration, further accentuates the global focus on climate adaptation. The agreement, however, fell short of providing a concrete plan for phasing out fossil fuels, a critical point for many European and Latin American countries [2]. The lack of a definitive roadmap raises concerns about the commitment to sustainable practices on a global scale [2].
Support for SMEs in Climate Action
Globally, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a pivotal role in climate action, as evidenced by discussions at the SME Climate Hub event during COP30. SMEs represent 90% of businesses worldwide and employ 70% of the global workforce, highlighting their significant potential impact on reducing emissions [3]. However, many SMEs face challenges in accessing the necessary information and resources to implement green innovations, underscoring the importance of supportive policies and frameworks [3].