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IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL ENTERPRISES IN ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT: CASE OF OTRA ELPA

Dana Gintere

Abstract

The aim of the research is to determine the social impact of the social enterprise Second Breath (Otra elpa) in solving the problem of the environment and social exclusion problems. The research is based on monographic method, document and statistical data analysis, analysis of social enterprises financial data and SROI analysis. Social enterprises have a dual purpose of solving social problems while generating and increasing profits ? they have responsibility to increase the social impact. Social impact is the change brought about by social enterprises which can be expressed in specific and measurable indicators. Social enterprises in Latvia operate in various sectors ? provision of social services, production of goods, health care, environmental protection, preservation of cultural diversity and heritage, integration of education and work, information flow and communication. The social enterprise Second Breath works both in the field of environmental protection and in reducing the risk of poverty or social inequality. Second Breath creates a positive social impact in the environmental context with the reuse of clothing and footwear and at the same time reducing the risk of social exclusion. Results showed that return on investment of Second Breath is 5.35 for every invested euro. Using the SROI method in the analysis of social enterprises scientifically substantiated data on the current situation in the context of Latvian social enterprises are promoted.

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