Interview Matthew Critchlow, General Manager of ClimatePartner France SAS and ELITE
What does “entrepreneurship” mean to you?
For me, entrepreneurship means identifying and acting on business opportunities, involving planning, investment and therefore risk. The state of our climate is undeniably an important consideration in business. This is precisely where we at ClimatePartner see our role and expertise: we advise our clients on how they can strategically anchor climate action in their company, also gain competitive advantages such as resilience and brand appeal and attractivity as an employer. Corporate climate action is no longer a question of "if" but "how". We support our clients on this journey with our almost 20 years of expertise in the field of corporate climate action.
What are the values that distinguish Climate Partner France in its approach to SMEs?
As our name suggests...we act as a partner to SMEs. The definition of reduction targets and the implementation of reduction measures varies greatly from sector to sector, every industry has industry-specific requirements. With our extensive knowledge within the organisation, we have been a strong partner for 20 years. In addition, there are many regulatory changes that SMEs must deal with now and in the future. As an expert in climate measures, ClimatePartner offers guidance and advice here.
When do companies benefit most from your support (corporate changes, launch of new products/services…)?
Thanks to an extensive suite of services and solutions, we support companies no matter where they are on their climate action journey. Whether a company is at the beginning of its commitment or whether it has already incorporated climate action in its corporate strategy. We calculate carbon footprints, advise on emissions target setting, reduction implementations, we offer a wide range of possibilities for contributing both within and outside a company's value chain (and contribute to the 17 United Nations SDGs!). ClimatePartner also advises on how companies can communicate transparently and effectively about their climate action. It is very important to us that climate action is truly embedded in the corporate strategy, this brings the long-term impact we all need on global warming.
Why is ELITE a distinctive network to be a part of?
We are proud to join the ELITE network. With its clear focus on investment, growth and strategy support for SME’s, we feel that climate has a very important place here. We are driven by a desire to be impactful, both for businesses and for the planet as a whole.
