1. What best practices exist for SMEs to manage their carbon emissions?
Summary:
SMEs should start with simplified carbon baselining focused on Scope 1 and 2, using readily available operational data (energy, fuel, logistics). The speakers emphasized progress over perfection, integrating carbon tracking into existing finance or operations processes rather than creating standalone systems. Early actions such as energy efficiency, supplier engagement, and staff awareness were highlighted as low-cost, high-impact starting points.
2. How can Kenyan firms remain investable under IFRS S2 and CSRD with limited carbon data systems?
Summary:
The key is proportionality and transparency. Firms are encouraged to disclose what is currently measurable, clearly explain assumptions, and show a credible roadmap for improving data quality. Investors are more concerned about governance, transition planning, and management accountability than perfect emissions numbers. Alignment with IFRS S2 principles can begin even before full CSRD readiness.
3. What barriers do carbon-intensive companies face, and how can they decarbonize while staying competitive?
Summary:
The main barriers discussed were high upfront capital costs, technology uncertainty, and short-term profitability pressures. The panel stressed practical solutions such as:
Phased renewable energy retrofits (e.g. PPAs, on-site solar)
Energy efficiency linked directly to cost savings
Strategic use of high-integrity carbon credits as a transition tool
Scalability and financial viability were prioritised over untested theoretical models.
4. Are there free platforms for SMEs to collect and manage carbon data?
Summary:
Yes, several entry-level or freemium tools were referenced as suitable for SMEs to start carbon tracking. While these tools may lack advanced assurance or CSRD-level reporting, they are sufficient for baseline measurement, internal decision-making, and early investor conversations.
5. Are there simple, non-ISO carbon management courses? Does ESG Business Institute offer them?
Summary:
The speakers highlighted the growing demand for practical, non-ISO-certified training focused on real-world application rather than compliance alone. ESG Business Institute was mentioned as offering accessible, practitioner-oriented courses designed for professionals, SMEs, and consultants entering carbon and ESG management.
6. Where can West African consultants build capacity and get ISO-certified?
Summary:
The recommended approach is to combine foundational ESG and carbon knowledge with targeted ISO training (e.g. ISO 14064, ISO 14001). The panel encouraged consultants to first master practical implementation before certification, and to leverage regional and international training providers that offer remote or blended learning.
7. What is an acceptable and effective decarbonisation strategy for the mining sector?
Summary:
For mining, the webinar emphasised a transition strategy, not immediate net zero. Priorities include:
Energy intensity reduction
Electrification where feasible
Clear transition plans aligned with capital access
Credibility with investors depends on execution capability and risk management, not ambitious targets alone.
8. Is there a simplified or unified toolkit for Sustainability-Linked Bond (SLB) metrics and scoring?
Summary:
Currently, there is no single universal toolkit, but convergence is emerging around a small set of credible KPIs. The panel advised companies to:
Focus on material, auditable indicators
Align SLB metrics with existing carbon and transition plans
Avoid overly complex scoring systems that undermine credibility
(Edited by ESG Business Institute - original submission Monday, 22 December 2025, 10:32 AM)
