We buy, we use, we throw away. And create pollution. This is nowadays a typical behaviour,
what millones of human do every day, damaging the sustainability of the planet. In an highly turistic place like Mallorca, what other options exist, that would be more “circular”, meaning that it doesn’t create trashes but rather re-use without creating wastes?
Social entrepreneurs differ from traditional entrepreneurs in that their main drive is to make a difference in the world or in their communities. Fighting poverty, protecting the environment…many are the causes that can be defended. Circular economy is a powerfull way of using money: instead of buying or producing something new and the throw it away when we don’t need it, in the circular economy we re-use the trashes to create and produce more. Everything is usefull and there is less consumption!
For exemple, the Council of Mallorca has created a plataform called Finhava that enables traceability of the entire food cycle. Hotels produce organic matter derived from consumption, which is transported to the Tirme facilities - Tirme is the company responsible for waste recycling in Mallorca. It is transformed into an ecological compound and farmers make use of the compound for fertilising crops. Farmers' products are then reintroduced into the process and the circular economy cycle is closed.
Social entrepreneurship in a circular economy is vital for Mallorca due to its unique environmental and economic challenges. As a tourism-driven island with limited resources, Mallorca has huge problems with sustainability. Every practice that reduces waste, preserve ecosystems, and promote resource reuse is useful.. It helps reduce tourism’s impact, support year-round local jobs, and make the island’s economy more resilient by diversifying beyond tourism.
It offers several benefits:
1. Sustainable Solutions: Social entrepreneurs create innovative solutions that promote the reuse, recycling, and repurposing of resources, which supports the principles of a circular economy and reduces waste.
2. Community Impact: They often focus on solving social issues, such as poverty or inequality, by creating job opportunities, supporting local communities, and addressing specific needs through sustainable practices.
3. Environmental Protection: By prioritizing resource efficiency and minimizing waste, social enterprises help reduce environmental impact, conserve natural resources, and mitigate climate change.
4. Economic Growth: These ventures can stimulate local economies by fostering new industries and business models that thrive within a circular economy framework.
5. Innovation: Social entrepreneurs drive innovation in sustainability practices and circular economy strategies, leading to new technologies and processes that enhance resource efficiency and environmental stewardship.
6. Education and Awareness: They often play a role in educating the public about sustainable practices, encouraging more widespread adoption of circular economy principles.