Are local enterprises sustainable? Empirical evidence from La Ceiba, Honduras

Abstract

Abstract– The entrepreneurial ecosystem in Honduras has grown, providing economic development opportunities for individuals and localities. La Ceiba is an important city for the country due to its geographical location and tourist activity, which makes it key to promoting business opportunities. The purpose of this study was to analyze the understanding and perception of sustainability among local entrepreneurs in that city in the economic (with an institutional subcategory), social, and environmental dimensions, using self-administered surveys and focus groups. It was found that 92% of entrepreneurs score high on their understanding of economic sustainability, but only 68% on environmental sustainability. Likewise, their organization is based on reinvention, resilience, and equitable work with other local entrepreneurs. They lack understanding of circular economy practices, yet a percentage of them put them into practice despite fully understanding the concept. The same is true regarding the perception of the link between their entrepreneurship and one of the Sustainable Development Goals. Training and green financing measures need to be implemented to contribute to a more integrated and aware entrepreneurial system.