Empreendedorismo social como vetor de transição circular na indústria têxtil: barreiras e facilitadores

Abstract

This study investigates the role of social entrepreneurship as a driver of circular transition in the textile industry, focusing on the barriers and facilitators faced by entrepreneurs who incorporate sustainable practices into their value chains. The research, qualitative and exploratory in nature, was conducted through interviews with social entrepreneurs active in the sector, revealing a range of challenges — including limited access to financial resources, cultural resistance to conscious consumption, and a lack of adequate infrastructure for reverse logistics. On the other hand, key enabling factors were identified, such as community engagement, technical training, and the strategic use of social media for awareness and communication. The findings indicate that, despite structural barriers, social entrepreneurship demonstrates strong transformative potential by integrating innovation, socio-environmental impact, and circular practices. In this context, its contribution to building a more inclusive, territorially grounded, and socially just circular economy becomes evident. The study also provides valuable insights for public policy design and for actors in the productive sector, highlighting the importance of institutional environments that support the strengthening, scalability, and sustainability of socially committed initiatives.