BACKGROUND

The British-Slovenian Chamber of Commerce (BSCC) faced a substantial challenge during the Covid-19 pandemic, witnessing a sharp 25% decline in membership. This decline underscored the urgent need for a strategic renewal to restore our membership to pre-pandemic levels. To navigate this crisis, it was imperative to assemble a highly motivated team, generate fresh ideas, and launch a pioneering project that would position the Chamber as an innovative, relevant, and influential opinion leader.

In mid-2023, we responded decisively by recruiting three new team members and introducing the transformative initiative, Chapter Zero, to Slovenia.

ESTABLISHING THE JOURNEY

Recognizing a strong interest and urgent need for education and information on climate-related topics, particularly at the board level, we identified Chapter Zero as the ideal initiative. Chapter Zero is a UK-based initiative established in 2019 with the mission of integrating climate considerations into boardrooms through events, online resources, tool-kits, and the exchange of best practices. It has a presence in over 70 countries.

In Slovenia, the BSCC took the lead as the host organization, collaborating with two other founding members: the Slovenian Directors’ Association and Deloitte Slovenia. Our coalition has grown to include nine partners and supporting organizations, among them Slovenia’s largest bank, NLB; the leading insurance company, Zavarovalnica Triglav; and the top daily newspaper, Delo.

SHOWCASING STRATEGIC VISION

Chapter Zero Slovenia exemplifies our Chamber’s strategic vision of promoting sustainability and environmental governance. It aligns seamlessly with our broader goals of fostering long-term growth, innovation, and leadership in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) matters. The initiative positions the BSCC as a thought leader in climate governance, not just within Slovenia but on a global stage.

Our vision is further strengthened by the distinguished ambassadors of Chapter Zero Slovenia, including Nataša Pirc Musar, President of the Republic of Slovenia; Lučka Kajfež Bogataj, Slovenian climatologist, specialist in agricultural meteorology, and Nobel Laureate; Janez Potočnik, co-chair of the International Resource Panel and former European Commissioner for Environment; and HE Tiffany Sadler, the British Ambassador to Slovenia.

Notably, Chapter Zero Slovenia is guided by an all-woman Management Board, demonstrating our commitment to diversity and gender equality in leadership roles. In our working group of 9 experts 8 are women (88%).

DEMONSTRATING LOCAL IMPACT AND SUSTAINABILITY

Chapter Zero Slovenia has made a significant local impact by fostering a culture of climate awareness and action among Slovenian businesses. Within a year, we have recruited 239 members to Chapter Zero Slovenia, reflecting strong engagement and interest.