This study investigates the sustainability challenges faced by small and micro-entrepreneurs in rural areas of the Philippines. It particularly focused on how these challenges align with the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework. The research employed focus group interviews and case studies among selected SMEs. It covered the financial, environmental, operational, and social dimensions of sustainability. Findings revealed that rural entrepreneurs face significant barriers in (a) accessing capital, (b) managing high costs for sustainable materials, and (c) overcoming infrastructure and technology limitations. All of these hinder their ability to implement sustainable practices. Furthermore, environmental challenges were also revealed such as waste management, resource scarcity, and vulnerability to climate events exacerbate operational difficulties. Some critical factors were also uncovered like social and community support networks from local government assistance to collaborative partnerships. They emerged as critical factors for resilience due to limited formal support structures. This research contributes to the literature on rural entrepreneurship as informed by TBL framework context to the Philippine context. This paper demonstrate how economic, social, and environmental factors uniquely intersect in rural settings. Findings underscore the need for policies that expand financial literacy programs. These policies could result to (a) an improve infrastructure, (b) provide subsidies for sustainable materials, and (c) foster community networks. These initiatives are essential for strengthening the sustainability of rural SMEs. Future research should consider longitudinal studies on sustainability adaptations among rural SMEs. Likewise, comparative analyses with other developing regions to deepen understanding of effective sustainability practices is recommended.

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Sustainability Struggles: Challenges Encountered by Small and Micro-entrepreneurs in Rural Philippines

  • Ma Everly Sudario

摘要

This study investigates the sustainability challenges faced by small and micro-entrepreneurs in rural areas of the Philippines. It particularly focused on how these challenges align with the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework. The research employed focus group interviews and case studies among selected SMEs. It covered the financial, environmental, operational, and social dimensions of sustainability. Findings revealed that rural entrepreneurs face significant barriers in (a) accessing capital, (b) managing high costs for sustainable materials, and (c) overcoming infrastructure and technology limitations. All of these hinder their ability to implement sustainable practices. Furthermore, environmental challenges were also revealed such as waste management, resource scarcity, and vulnerability to climate events exacerbate operational difficulties. Some critical factors were also uncovered like social and community support networks from local government assistance to collaborative partnerships. They emerged as critical factors for resilience due to limited formal support structures. This research contributes to the literature on rural entrepreneurship as informed by TBL framework context to the Philippine context. This paper demonstrate how economic, social, and environmental factors uniquely intersect in rural settings. Findings underscore the need for policies that expand financial literacy programs. These policies could result to (a) an improve infrastructure, (b) provide subsidies for sustainable materials, and (c) foster community networks. These initiatives are essential for strengthening the sustainability of rural SMEs. Future research should consider longitudinal studies on sustainability adaptations among rural SMEs. Likewise, comparative analyses with other developing regions to deepen understanding of effective sustainability practices is recommended.