Social Economy Organizations as Catalysts of the Green Transition: Evidence from Circular Economy, Decarbonization, and Short Food Supply Chains

This paper examines the evolving role of social economy organisations (SEOs) in advancing sustainability and contributing to the green transition. While traditionally focused on social inclusion and local development, SEOs are increasingly integrating environmental objectives into their operations, particularly through circular economy (CE) practices, decarbonisation strategies, and short food supply chains (SFSCs). Based on qualitative research and the analysis of 16 good practices from five European countries, the study demonstrates how SEOs create blended social and environmental value by combining economic, social, and ecological goals. The findings show that SEOs foster environmental sustainability by reducing resource consumption and carbon emissions, creating green jobs, strengthening local cooperation, and raising environmental awareness within communities. Importantly, SEOs emerge not only as service providers but also as innovators and agents of change in local ecosystems. The paper concludes with policy recommendations to enhance the role of SEOs in the green transition and identifies directions for future research, particularly regarding the measurement of their long-term environmental impact and the conditions enabling effective collaboration with public and private sector actors.