• Map out the existing tools for SMEs to assess their environmental performance with respect to target group, main users, key dimensions assessed in the tool, cost for users.
• Provide conclusions on the space for ITC’s tool with particular focus on SMEs in developing countries as well as potential sector focus.

Definition of the assessment tool and criteria

• Conduct a literature review to map out the main dimensions used to assess the environmental performance of small businesses. For this, especially review the literature on “green competitiveness”. In this context, get familiar with ITC’sexisting methodology to assess SMEs’ resource efficiency and circular production practices.
• Based on the insights of the literature review and the information on the assessment methodology used by existing tools, define the main dimensions and indicators of the tool, as well as the assessment framework (e.g. weightings and prioritisation).
• For all of the dimensions, identify existing data sources that the tool can draw from (e.g. carbon intensity energy used in piloting countries, cost of water, etc.) and provide recommendations on how these sources can be intergrated into the tool (e.g. static vs. live update).
• Develop the data collection survey used by the tool as well as the data that needs to be inserted into the tool (e.g. energy consumtion). Coordinate the survey closely with the ITC web developer, who will develop the online and offline version of the tool.