Methodology
The methodology involved four key stages, these were:
a. Data Analysis
Data was collected from a number of social enterprise umbrella organisations and amalgamated into a social enterprise data base. 9 data assessment criteria were developed in order to analyse the data and identify strengths, weaknesses and any gaps. Subjecting the data to rigorous analysis provided an understanding of areas of confidence and areas of doubt in terms of its coverage, accuracy and quality.
b. Mapping the sector
Utilising the data collected from the data analysis, we were able to map the location of social enterprises in England and Wales and to assess the transport distances to relevant reprocessing facilities.
c. Case Studies & Typology
Two case studies, one in England and one in Wales, using on site research and data collection to measure and evaluate the impact of activities on economic, environmental and social sustainability of social enterprises on local, regional and ultimately UK level communities. Case studies were conducted by two methods, on site participant observation of two companies and via interviews of 4 companies. A typology was developed to help identify social enterprises with a waste focus.
d. Stakeholder interviews
Interviews of selected social enterprises from a sample of those surveyed, and of key stakeholders to identify further issues and patterns relating to current and future capacity of social enterprises to deal with different waste streams, to identify most effective and efficient approaches to including social enterprises into a more integrated waste and resource management infrastructure in the UK.
