Unit summary
In this unit you learned that gender-sensitive climate-responsive livelihoods are sustainable and equitable and enable women and men to adapt to the impacts of climate change. Sustainable growth and business models meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
To build a successful and sustainable business, you must consider the needs of the community, the environment and the people involved in the business. The business should be designed to:
- meet the specific needs of both women and men,
- address climate risks, and
- promote gender equality.
It should also be flexible enough to adapt to changing market conditions and environmental challenges.
Key steps in developing such a business model include:
1 Identify the needs of the community and the environment.
2 Design products or services that meet those needs.
3 Define the target market.
4 Develop marketing and operations plans.
5 Secure financial resources.
6 Establish a strong management team.
7 Implement risk mitigation strategies.
Partnering with other organisations and using technology can further enhance the effectiveness of gender-sensitive climate-responsive businesses.
Community enterprises are owned and operated by the community they serve. They differ from traditional businesses in their focus on providing goods and services that meet the community’s needs, rather than maximising profits.
A community of practice (CoP), a group of people who share a common interest or goal and learn from each other through formal and informal interactions, is an essential component of a community enterprise. Women’s self-help groups (SHGs) and joint liability groups (JLGs) are examples of CoPs.
Community enterprises and CoPs play a crucial role in promoting sustainable development by providing essential goods and services to communities and building social capital.
Community enterprises thrive on collaboration and inclusivity. They promote diversity, respect and equity, which leads to a more just and equitable society. Scale advantage benefits include bulk sourcing, standardised processes, technology investments and economies of scope.
You also learned that horizontal learning enhances knowledge, problem solving, creativity, innovation, engagement and collaboration.
When you are developing a successful business model that promotes gender-sensitive and climate-resilient livelihoods and economic growth you must consider and address the local community’s perspectives, issues, concerns and resources.
