What question did this study set out to answer?

This study investigates social entrepreneurship as a solution for environmental sustainability challenges in South Africa.

May 10, 2026Open Access

A scoping review of social entrepreneurship as an approach to environmental sustainability in BRICS+ countries: Lessons from South Africa

Key Points

This study investigates social entrepreneurship as a solution for environmental sustainability challenges in South Africa.
Conducted a scoping review using primary and secondary data from various databases and reports.
Performed systematic searches with specific keywords and inclusion criteria focused on relevant linkages between social entrepreneurship and environmental sustainability.
Utilized the Sustainable Social Entrepreneur Model (SSEM) to analyze innovative solutions.
Identified programs like REIPPPP that have contributed over 6,000 MW of renewable capacity by 2023.
Highlighted that coal reliance causes high carbon emissions, exacerbating environmental challenges, particularly in agriculture and public health.
Noted that profit-driven models and funding limitations pose significant barriers to scaling solutions.

Abstract

South Africa, a BRICS+ member, faces interconnected challenges, including economic inefficiencies, water scarcity, high carbon emissions, and energy insecurity, all of which are exacerbated by climate change. These issues pose a threat to sustainable development and human well-being. This study explores social entrepreneurship as a strategy for promoting environmental sustainability in South Africa, aiming to address these challenges through innovative, stakeholder-driven solutions aligned with the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework. Therefore, a scoping review was conducted, utilising both primary and secondary data from peer-reviewed journals, governmental reports, and other relevant documents. Systematic searches across databases such as Scopus, EBSCOhost, ABI/Inform, ScienceDirect, SABINET, Google Scholar, and Bing were performed using keywords like "social entrepreneurship" and "environmental sustainability." Inclusion criteria focused on materials linking these concepts, while irrelevant content was excluded. South Africa's reliance on coal for 95% of electricity generation drives high carbon emissions, contributing to extreme weather events like droughts and cyclones, which impact agriculture, biodiversity, and public health. Social entrepreneurship offers innovative solutions, such as renewable energy microgrids and water-efficient technologies, supported by the Sustainable Social Entrepreneur Model (SSEM). Programs like the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), with over 6,000 MW of renewable capacity by 2023, demonstrate potential. However, profit-driven business models and limited funding hinder progress. Social entrepreneurship, guided by the SSEM and TBL, provides a viable approach to addressing South Africa’s environmental and social challenges. Collaboration among businesses, policymakers, and communities is essential to overcome barriers and scale sustainable solutions. Further research into adapting SSEM across BRICS+ nations could enhance global sustainability efforts.

Demander à l'IA

Bookmark

View Full Paper