Russian SMEs in achieving sustainable development goals

Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, 36, Stremyanny lane, 117997, Moscow, Russia

^* Corresponding author: oyelina@yandex.ru

Abstract

This article examines trends and opportunities in implementing the concept of sustainable development in the world and in the economy of the Russian Federation at the level of small and medium-sized enterprises. Based on the analysis of statistical data on contribution and forms of participation in solving environmental problems and formation of sustainable development trends in terms of achieving the SDGs of SMEs in the Russian Federation, we conclude that there is insufficient participation and weak motivation in this sector. The analysis is done using data from Eurostat, Rosstat, and Fedstat (an OECD institutional website), studying how values of indicators have changed during recent years. This conclusion is in line with studies of global trends showing a decline in business and economic activity towards the achievement of the SDGs, especially in the SME sector. At the same time, we show the existence of business niches and significant growth potential in this sector. In conclusion, we consider possibilities for overcoming these trends through external influence in the form of government support and through internal transformation of business processes. Furthermore, we propose business models for implementing participation of small and medium-sized businesses in the formation of a sustainable development economy.