Auckland small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are receiving a helping hand in preparing for the challenges posed by climate change, thanks to the launch of the ClimateWise digital tool.

Developed by Climate Connect Aotearoa, the platform aims to support local businesses in identifying and managing climate-related risks, a critical need underscored by the devastating weather events of 2023.

ClimateWise was launched by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, the economic and cultural agency of Auckland Council, to provide free, practical tools and resources for businesses.

With SMEs accounting for a massive 98.7% of Auckland's business community, the platform addresses the gap in climate resilience support for smaller operations.

Parin Rafiei-Thompson, Head of Climate Innovation and Sustainability at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, explained that SMEs are the backbone of the region's economy but often lack the necessary resources to prepare for climate impacts.

"This platform provides user-friendly, accessible tools to help business owners identify risks and opportunities, protect their operations, strengthen supply chain resilience, and develop robust plans,” Rafiei-Thompson said.

The tool’s development involved extensive collaboration with experts in climate resilience and various business networks, including the Sustainable Business Network and Tonkin + Taylor.

These partnerships, along with workshops with SMEs, helped ensure that the resources provided are practical, simple, and relevant to the diverse business community, including Māori and Pacific peoples’ businesses.

Key features of the platform include video tutorials, downloadable templates for risk assessment and adaptation planning, and case studies highlighting how local businesses have successfully navigated extreme weather events.

Charlotte Kootstra, Sustainability Manager for Climate and Environment at the Sustainable Business Council, emphasised the importance of preparedness in supply chains: "Suppliers with a climate adaptation plan signal to their customers that there is a lower risk of disruption to the flow of products or services, particularly during adverse weather events."

The platform’s launch aligns with Auckland's wider climate goals as outlined in the city’s Climate Plan, which targets a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030.

As part of its ongoing efforts, the Climate Connect Aotearoa initiative plans a second phase of the project in 2025, featuring a 'train-the-trainer' programme to further build resilience capabilities within the community.

For Hibiscus Coast residents involved in local businesses, the launch of ClimateWise is a timely opportunity to access tools that can safeguard against the growing risks of climate-related disruptions.

By adopting these resources, businesses can not only protect their future but also contribute to a more resilient and sustainable Auckland.

The ClimateWise platform offers a valuable resource to Auckland’s SMEs, empowering them to better manage climate-related risks and strengthen their operations.

Local businesses on the Hibiscus Coast are encouraged to take advantage of the free tools available at learn.climateconnectnz.com to begin their journey towards climate resilience.

Have a story to share from your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! 

Send your news tips and stories to [email protected]