Horizontal topics

Digital transformation and sustainability are some of the main challenges faced by European SMEs to maintain their competitiveness. Embracing digitalisation entails the adoption of new advanced technologies, upskilling employees to leverage digital tools effectively and managing new risks such as cybersecurity. At the same time, sustainability involves implementing eco-friendly practices and meeting new European environmental regulations, all of which require significant investments and strategic planning.

Standards play a critical role in facilitating the green and digital transition of SMEs. They are essential tools for translating the requirements of European legislation in these areas into clear specifications and protocols, enabling SMEs to understand and comply with environmental and digital objectives. Sustainability has evolved beyond a legal necessity to a consumer and market demand, making adherence to recognised standards needed for accessing local and international markets.  Involving SMEs in the standard-setting process is essential to ensure that these standards are realistic, feasible and benefit the whole economy. Otherwise, they may only meet the needs of bigger companies and even place unnecessary or inappropriate requirements on small businesses. EU regulations, policies and strategies also play a key role in ensuring the access and representation of SMEs in standardisation at the European level, and it is important to include the SME perspective and technical knowledge in their development.  The following sections highlight the work of SBS in relation to major horizontal issues such as digitalisation, sustainability and general standardisation policy.