The First Element

Small businesses play an outsized role in driving economic output on the local and global levels. But smaller margins and fewer resources than larger companies make them far more vulnerable to climate shocks. We must reduce the climate risks facing smaller enterprises while accelerating their ability to deliver climate solutions and play a central role in the transition to a low-carbon, regenerative economy. A new report, produced by Christensen Global and supported by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, reveals three things small businesses need to unlock their power to accelerate climate-smart inclusive growth: data, capital, and wrap-around support.

What was the purpose of the big leaders meeting in Sweden today? What is the nature of the political transition ongoing in the European Union? Carl Bildt, former prime minister of Sweden and co-chair of the European Council on Foreign Relations, shares his perspective on European politics from Northern Italy.

The Israeli Security Cabinet has approved a ceasefire for Lebanon, President Joe Biden announced on Tuesday, welcoming the opportunity to start reestablishing peace in the Middle East. Early Wednesday, 13 months of fighting ended as the ceasefire took hold, and thousands of displaced Lebanese civilians began returning to their homes in the South.