Why SBMC?

Traditional business models often approach value creation from a one-dimensional, financial perspective. The Sustainable Business Model Canvas (SBMC) expands this view by integrating ecological and social sustainability into your business model – in a structured, practical, and actionable way.

Key Benefits:

• Competitive advantage through credible sustainability

• Access to ESG investors and public funding

• Risk mitigation and opportunity identification (e.g., circular economy models)

• Enhanced brand trust and employee retention

• Future-proofing through regulatory and stakeholder alignment

SBMC Implementation: Step-by-Step

1. Analyze Your Current Model

• Load your existing Business Model Canvas (BMC)

• For each block, evaluate:

• Where are the environmental impacts?

• What are the social implications (positive or negative)?

→ Use tools like Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), stakeholder mapping, and supply chain audits.

2. Engage Stakeholders

• Identify key actors (employees, customers, suppliers)

• Conduct workshops or interviews to explore:

• Expectations around sustainability

• Suggestions or concerns related to change

3. Fill in the Canvas (Triple Layer Approach)

Use a Triple Layer Business Model Canvas:

• Economic Layer: What remains? Where are cost-saving or revenue opportunities?

• Environmental Layer: Which materials, processes, or logistics can be optimized?

• Social Layer: How to enhance working conditions, equity, or community impact?

4. Define Levers & Actions

• Identify 2–3 Quick Wins and 1–2 Strategic Levers per layer

• Assign responsibilities and set KPIs

5. Pilot & Measure

• Test 1–2 initiatives on a small scale (e.g., specific product line or market)

• Monitor KPIs: e.g., customer satisfaction, material savings, emissions

• Adjust based on results and stakeholder feedback

6. Scale & Communicate

• Roll out successful changes across the organization

• Report transparently (Impact Reports, certifications, storytelling)

• Use the SBMC as a visual tool in pitches, funding applications, and partnerships