Funding for improving resource efficiency in SMEs
About this good practice
Resource audit is required for investment support.
At the first stage, five sectors were allowed to apply for funding: mining, food processing, wood industry, paper and pulp industry, and processing of mineral material. In the second phase, the scope was broadened to all the mining and manufacturing industries.
Expert opinion
The EU Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) is a premier management instrument developed by the European Commission for companies and other organisations to evaluate, report, and improve their environmental performance. EMAS is open to every type of organisation eager to improve its environmental performance. It spans all economic and service sectors and is applicable worldwide. It provides enhanced credibility and transparency, improves environmental and financial performance, as well as employee engagement. This good practice helps to raise awareness and provide trainings to companies. It is especially suitable for Eastern European countries which are lagging behind EU-15 in terms of resource efficiency in SMEs. The measure includes support for EMAS uptake in this way making the link to an existing EU initiative.
Resources needed
Evidence of success
• 850 participants in awareness raising activities
• 49 trained resource specialists
• 90 resource audits supported, 500 000 €, 53 completed
• 31 investment projects supported in the amount of 25 million € and the project total amount of 77 million €. Currently, 3 projects have ended
• Resource productivity of Estonia has improved 10%
Potential for learning or transfer
An aspect that might hinder the process, is the complexity of state aid rules.
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Ministry of the Environment