Who Are Green Social Entrepreneurs And Why Do They Matter :
Who Are Green Social Entrepreneurs And Why Do They Matter
Climate change is, no doubt, a major threat currently facing the world. As expected, policymakers have been under pressure for solutions. In the face of ineffective policy, it is not surprising to see private citizens try to bring about change. A new movement, Green Social Entrepreneurship, has emerged from this desire.
This article will explore the meaning of green social entrepreneurship. Furthermore, we would consider some impacts these entrepreneurs are having.
What is Green Social Entrepreneurship?
Green social entrepreneurship as a term lacks a universal definition. Many people resonate with the term in different ways. While some view it as a sector, others regard it as a movement. In essence, there is no single accepted definition. Yet, one can describe the qualities that distinguish green social enterprise.
Thus, green social entrepreneurship can be described as a specific subset of entrepreneurship. It is a brand of entrepreneurship that aims to create solutions to environmental problems. Also, green social businesses seek to promote social change through various initiatives. These entrepreneurs consider issues of environmental responsibility and human rights in their business. They also contemplate issues of social protection and social dialogue.
Entrepreneurs like these continue to increase in the private sector worldwide. Their major goal? To bring about significant and eco-friendly social change in the sectors they work. Thus, it is relevant to consider some of the impacts these entrepreneurs are having.
Impact of Green Social Entrepreneurship
Green social entrepreneurs are essential for several reasons. Here are a couple:
Practical Solutions
Entrepreneurs are generally innovators. The same is true for green social entrepreneurs. This means they can develop practical solutions to various environmental problems. Such solutions cut across areas of renewable energy and food waste reduction.
Many green social enterprises in the MENA region are currently deploying such solutions. For instance, The Waste Lab is a UAE startup that recycles food waste into products.
Awareness Creation
Green social entrepreneurs can help generate public awareness on environmental and social issues. The business models of these entrepreneurs are usually centered on such issues. As such, they can raise awareness by simply promoting their businesses. Many green social enterprises are already contributing greatly in this respect.
In Egypt, for instance, organizations like Banlastic have embarked on awareness campaigns. Banlastic, in particular, educates people about the dangers of plastic pollution.
Policy Advocacy
Green social entrepreneurs can also proactively interact with relevant stakeholders. Such stakeholders include government representatives and international organizations. By collaborating with these stakeholders, these entrepreneurs may catalyze effective initiatives. Such an interaction occurred at the Conference of the Parties (COP) meeting in Glasgow. During the event, many green social enterprises advocated for improved environmental solutions.
Clearly, the collaboration between these entrepreneurs and other relevant stakeholders is critical. Such partnership could spur real and sustainable changes toward a better environment.
Conclusion
Green social entrepreneurship is, no doubt, a welcome development. With the buzz surrounding green social entrepreneurs, they could revitalize efforts to save the planet.
