The Social Economy and circular economy
The social economy has a demonstrated experience in developing circular activities[1]
Social economy organisations have been pioneers in implementing circular practices and business models, especially in repairing, reusing and recycling activities, for many decades now. They have extensive experience in various sectors recognised as priorities for the circular economy (e.g. electronics, food, plastics and textiles). They have illustrated the economic potential of these activities, especially in areas where private financial capital would not find attractive enough returns despite possibly high social and environmental benefits, and helped unlock and structure sectors that turned out to be important in promoting the circular economy. Social economy organisations participate in circular value chains and help reduce the environmental impacts of their economic activities.
[1] POLICY BRIEF ON MAKING THE MOST OF THE SOCIAL ECONOMY’S CONTRIBUTION TO THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY – OECD and the Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion of the European Commission (DG EMPL 2022
“…social enterprises have significant potential for providing high quality employment in areas such as…the circular economy with activities related to reuse, repair or recycling. The identification of effective up-scaling strategies for green social enterprises and raising awareness about opportunities could inspire others to be entrepreneurs.”[1]
[1] 2 EC (2014) Tapping into the job creation potential of the green Economy available online COM(2014)
