While South Africa is the second largest economy in Africa and has a relatively high GDP per capita, poverty, (youth) unemployment, inequality, food insecurity and environmental degradation are some of the greatest challenges faced by the country. Evidence shows that social and environmental enterprises that apply green and inclusive business models can play a significant role in addressing those challenges on the ground, and in turn, in achieving sustainable development. The National Sustainable Development Strategy highlighted the role of SMMEs, the informal sector and gender in a green economy in development. It is essential for policy makers to understand the impact of those enterprises and how their scale-up can be promoted through policy interventions. This report provides case studies in South Africa and highlights the social, economic and environmental impacts (Triple Bottom Line impacts) delivered by these enterprises, namely:
- Creation of employment opportunities and building resilience at the Base of Pyramid (BoP)
- Provision of training and development of transferable skills
- Increased access to food and improved nutrition and diet
- Encouragement of women empowerment and gender equality
- Promotion of local business development through micro- entrepreneurship
- Introduction of innovative value chains
- Enhancement of environmental awareness amongst communities
- Adoption of sustainable practices: organic farming and conservation
- Reduction of waste