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Transforming existing industrial models
How to social entrepreneurship emerge as a an innovative response to social and environmental challenges ?
Social entrepreneurship, an innovative response to social and environmental challenges
In July 2024, at theExile Experiencefour committed entrepreneurs discussed the importance of redefining the rules of the game in the business world.
Voices of commitment
Lucie Basch - Combating food waste
Co-founder of Too Good To GoLucie Basch combating food waste with an application that links retailers and consumers to make the most of unsold goods. His initiative shows that a business model can be both profitable and ethical.
Sophie Robert-Velut - Rethinking the impact of business
CEO of Laboratoires Expanscience, Sophie Robert-Velut is campaigning for rethinking the raison d'être of companiesraise awareness among stakeholders and adapting the economy to planetary limits. She shares her know-how from the field to put us on the path to reason and commitment.
Olivier Cueille - Solidarity at the heart of business
Co-founder of MicroDonOlivier Cueille democratises giving through to innovative solutions such as rounding up at the till. Its approach turns simple gestures into levers for solidarity powerful, proving that every contribution counts.
David Lorrain - A second life for books
Founder of RecycLivreDavid Lorrain gives new life to neglected books. Sound circular model reduces waste while supporting community initiatives, illustrating the potential of a a more respectful and inclusive economy.
The circular economy: transforming our models and putting an end to "produce, consume, throw away".
The circular economy aims to reduce waste by encouraging reuserecycling and repairing products. Unlike the linear economy (extract-produce-discard), it is based on several principles:
- Eco-design : Products designed to last and be recycled.
- Longer service life Repair, reuse and reconditioning.
- Recycling : Turning waste into new resources.
- Functional economy Priority to use (rental, sharing).
A model that conserves resources, reduces the ecological footprint and stimulates innovation.
The Legend of the Hummingbird: a reminder of the basics
Faced with a huge fire, a little hummingbird carries drops of water to try to extinguish the flames. Even though his gesture seems derisory, it embodies small steps, courage and determination.
Like this hummingbird, committed entrepreneurs prove that even the smallest actions can sow the seeds of change. Everyone, through their commitment, is helping to build a more sustainable future.
"I won't put out the fire but I've done my bit." Olivier Cueille
Reinventing the rules of the game
Today's entrepreneurs are called upon to fundamentally transform their business models while tackling the complex and interdependent environmental and social challenges of our time. Innovation is becoming an imperative in the very way the company is conceived. The boldness to think outside the box, combined with the flexibility to adapt to the rapid changes in our world, are the essential pillars of modern entrepreneurship that succeeds in harmoniously combining economic success with a positive impact on society.
"How do I make sure I never have to choose between my financial stability and my societal impact in the fight against food waste?" Lucie Basch
Collaboration: a multiplier of impact
Lucie Basch brilliantly illustrates how cooperation between companies can generate sustainable, transformative solutions. With Too Good To Go, she succeeded in bring together a wide range of players in the food industry around an innovative pact on consumption dates, an initiative that has led to a significant reduction in food waste throughout the value chain. By mobilising restaurants, supermarkets and producers around common objectives, it demonstrates that complex challenges require collaborative approaches. Sharing ideas, resources and expertise amplifies societal impact, creating a multiplier effect that far exceeds the sum of individual efforts. The strength of the collective thus becomes a powerful catalyst for positive change.
Doing business for a better world
Doing business differently is not just a passing fad, but an essential urgent need. Entrepreneurs are at the heart of the transition to a fairer, more sustainable society. By adapting, collaborating and rethinking their business models, they are creating companies that not only generate profits, but also have a lasting positive impact. Together, let's inspire each other to build a future where entrepreneurship rhymes with commitment.
"You have to rethink your raison d'être in the sense of really saying to yourself if I ceased to exist tomorrow, who would miss it?" Sophie Robert-Velu
