Effect of Ecopreneurship on Environment Protection and Sustainable Development in India: The Role of Women Entrepreneurs

Abstract

Introduction: Ecopreneurship, a synergistic blend of environmental stewardship and entrepreneurial innovation, is gaining recognition as a powerful tool for addressing pressing ecological challenges while fostering socio-economic growth. It represents a paradigm shift in how businesses are conceived and operated, moving beyond profit-centric models to those that prioritize ecological balance and long-term sustainability. In the Indian context, where environmental degradation poses serious threats to biodiversity, public health and climate resilience, ecopreneurship has emerged as a timely and transformative approach.

Methodology: This paper delves into the growing ecosystem of women-led ecopreneurship in India, examining how these ventures reflect a unique confluence of community-centric values, environmental consciousness and innovative problem-solving. The study first defines ecopreneurship and establishes its relevance to India's environmental and economic landscape, then examines the role of women entrepreneurs across five dimensions: innovative green solutions, community engagement and grassroots empowerment, economic empowerment, promoting renewable energy, and waste management and recycling. In-depth case studies of pioneering women ecopreneurs are presented, followed by an assessment of environmental impact, an alignment mapping against the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and an analysis of the challenges faced and the opportunities available.

Results & Discussion: Women-led businesses such as Bare Necessities in zero-waste lifestyle products and Green Sole in upcycled footwear demonstrate the potential of sustainable innovation, while rural self-help groups promote organic farming, eco-tourism and water conservation. Two case studies are documented: Poonam Bir Kasturi's Daily Dump in Bangalore, which encourages household composting through user-friendly compost bins and awareness campaigns and has diverted tons of organic waste from landfills; and Rashmi Bharti's Avani Kumaon in Uttarakhand, which promotes sustainable livelihoods through textile production using natural dyes and solar-powered looms. Measurable environmental contributions include reduction in plastic waste through biodegradable packaging and upcycling, soil and water conservation through organic farming, biodiversity conservation through reviving traditional seed banks, and emission reductions through clean energy adoption. These contributions align with SDG 5, SDG 7, SDG 12 and SDG 13. Four categories of challenge are identified: financial constraints, limited market access, cultural and social barriers, and skill gaps.

Conclusion: Women ecopreneurs are emerging as pivotal contributors to India's sustainable future. Their enterprises demonstrate that environmental protection and economic growth can go hand in hand when guided by innovation, inclusivity and ecological responsibility. Despite facing systemic barriers such as limited funding, market access challenges and socio-cultural constraints, women-led green ventures continue to make significant strides, and their efforts align closely with India's climate commitments and Sustainable Development Goals. To unlock their full potential, targeted support is essential, including gender-sensitive policy frameworks, financial inclusion mechanisms, skill development programmes and stronger institutional networks.