Implications of Innovative Strategies for Sustainable Entrepreneurship—Solutions to Combat Climate Change

Abstract

We face significant challenges related to sustainability and social responsibility, so sustainable entrepreneurship is a key way to help address these issues. How can sustainable entrepreneurship contribute to combating climate change? This is the question from which this research started. The paper proposes important research directions to develop innovative and sustainable solutions tailored to the problem. By investigating the impact of different innovation strategies, the study aims to provide concrete recommendations to all stakeholders. Recognizing that effective climate action requires collaboration among government, businesses, non-governmental organizations, and citizens, the study emphasizes the importance of raising awareness, education, and access to information. Using fsQCA software version 4.1, the research analyzes various innovation strategies to develop tailored, sustainable solutions. The findings offer concrete recommendations for stakeholders, aiming to facilitate the implementation of sustainable practices and foster a supportive framework for green initiatives. Ultimately, this study contributes to efforts aimed at reducing the carbon footprint and promoting a more responsible economic model in Romania. The results not only provide concrete recommendations for relevant actors but also outline a strategic vision on how a more responsible economic model can be promoted in Romania, with the potential to influence sustainable development policies and inspire future initiatives.

1. Introduction

Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century, with devastating effects on the global environment, economy, and society. In this context, the role of sustainable entrepreneurship becomes crucial, offering innovative solutions that contribute to reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmentally responsible practices. This research aims to explore the innovative strategies that entrepreneurs can adopt to help combat climate change, emphasizing the importance of a sustainable approach to business and justifying the need for an in-depth study on this topic. We started our research from the following question: How can sustainable entrepreneurship contribute to combating climate change?

By addressing this question, the research contributes to the understanding of how sustainable entrepreneurship can be an innovative and viable solution to climate change, providing both theoretical insights and practical examples. The study aims to highlight not only the economic benefits of sustainable initiatives but also their social and environmental impacts, emphasizing the critical role of entrepreneurs in the transition to a green economy.

Climate change is currently one of the greatest challenges facing humanity in the 21st century. The phenomenon of climate change has many negative impacts, among which are rising global temperatures, melting glaciers, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation. The adaptation process to respond to climate change is one of the most studied in the world [1]. Thus, the concept of sustainable entrepreneurship has gained great importance in recent years [2]. Sustainable entrepreneurship has become an essential component in finding innovative solutions to combat climate change. In sustainable entrepreneurship, entrepreneurs must have both the ability and motivation to increase societal welfare.

Sustainable entrepreneurship aims to develop businesses that are not only profitable but also have a positive impact on the environment and society. The term “sustainable entrepreneurship” refers to a holistic way of looking at the contribution of entrepreneurial endeavors to social, environmental, and economic issues [2]. Innovation strategies vary according to industry specifics, from developing green technologies to adopting more sustainable business practices. Schaltegger and Wagner [2] characterized sustainable entrepreneurship as a contribution to solving societal and environmental problems through successful business and promoting sustainable development through business activities. Innovation strategies in sustainable entrepreneurship can successfully combat climate change. Social innovation is realized when the proposed transformations add value to society and the environment, helping public policy makers and taking into account society as a whole [3].

Climate change influences global ecological balance and socio-economic stability. If climate change has triggered new opportunities for sustainable entrepreneurship, the circular economy is identified as a necessary agent in the entrepreneurial process [4]. Innovation strategies have a particularly important role in developing viable solutions for mitigation and adaptation to negative climate impacts. Opportunities are not simply identified by a person with superior qualities but arise from an entrepreneur’s alertness to information asymmetries in the economy [5].

Through innovative strategies and practices, entrepreneurs can help tackle climate change, opening new horizons for sustainable economic growth. Finding solutions to the great environmental challenges of our times while creating economic growth has raised questions about the elusiveness of sustainable development [6,7].

For large corporations and large industrial enterprises, social orientation and environmental projects are not only a duty or just a challenge but also an opportunity that gives a new impetus to business [8]. Reorienting economic activities towards resource efficiency and carbon reduction is an effective approach to combat climate change.

The originality of this article lies in the fact that it explores how sustainable entrepreneurship can make a concrete contribution to tackling climate change, a topical and important but relatively unexplored issue from the perspective of innovative customized solutions. In the existing literature, most studies either approach sustainable entrepreneurship from a general perspective or investigate the impacts of climate change from purely economic or regulatory perspectives. The challenge identified in the literature lies at the intersection of these two areas: how entrepreneurs can develop sustainable and innovative solutions that are specifically tailored to climate issues. By identifying concrete and innovation-focused research directions, the article proposes a unique and applied approach that can guide both future research and practice in the field of green entrepreneurship.

2. Literature Review

Climate change is mainly driven by greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas). Renewable energies are therefore highly efficient alternatives that significantly reduce these emissions and contribute to stabilizing the global climate. Adaptation to climate change refers to the adjustment of management strategies to actual or expected climatic conditions in order to reduce risks or to capitalize on opportunities [9]. Renewable energy sources are needed to combat climate change. They are divided into solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass. Widespread deployment of renewable energy sources is needed to combat climate change. Renewable energy deployment is necessary not only to meet energy demand but also to address climate change concerns [10].

York and Venkataraman [11], and Pacheco, Dean, and Payne [12] considered that entrepreneurs need to address the challenges of sustainable growth in order to promote the development of a green society. Cohen and Winn [13] and Cohen, Smith, and Mitchell [14] argued that sustainable entrepreneurship involves individuals and organizations whose strategic goal is to achieve positive economic, environmental, and social outcomes. The focus on developing green technologies and sustainable practices is a very important element of sustainable entrepreneurship. Sustainable entrepreneurship makes an important contribution to solving environmental problems and realizing environmental protection [13,15] in parallel with scaling business opportunities.

A sustainable future requires the collective commitment and focused efforts of all stakeholders. The relationship between entrepreneurship and sustainable development has been addressed by various schools of thought, often leading to the launch of new types of entrepreneurs, such as the eco-entrepreneur and the social entrepreneur [2,16]. Innovation in organizational processes, production, and economic models is vital for sustainable entrepreneurship. The concept of sustainable development, i.e., technological development and organizational change to harmonize the needs of both present and future generations [17], underpins the latest philosophy of solving existing environmental problems that threaten the ecosystem [13].

Adopting renewable energy sources will improve storage technologies and promote sustainable policies to create a cleaner and more secure energy future. The deployment of renewable energy sources is an important step in the global transition to a low-carbon economy, as renewable energy is an immediate necessity. Controlling the greenhouse gas emissions associated with climate change can be achieved by transforming modern energy systems, which are largely based on fossil fuels, to use renewable energy sources [18]. Natural ecosystems, human health, and global economic stability are threatened by climate change, fueled largely by greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel combustion. Therefore, there must be a three-dimensional relationship along with a bidirectional causal relationship between economy, environment, and energy.

Solar energy converts sunlight into electricity through photovoltaic panels, which are becoming increasingly efficient and cheaper. This type of energy enables a wide range of consumers, from individual households to large corporations, to reduce their carbon footprint. Energy resources such as solar and wind meet household energy demand without polluting the air [19]. Wind energy is another viable solution to reduce polluting emissions. Onshore and offshore wind turbines capture the kinetic energy of the wind and convert it into electricity. The use of alternative energy sources is not new. Historically, biofuels have cost more than their fossil-fuel counterparts to develop and commission.

Hydropower uses the power of flowing water to generate electricity and is a major source of renewable energy. Renewable technologies, also known as alternative energy, are those that can be utilized again to generate energy, such as solar, wind, bioenergy, groundwater, etc. [20]. Thus, another renewable energy source is geothermal energy; it uses the Earth’s internal heat to generate electricity or for the direct heating of buildings. Geothermal energy is a steady and reliable source of energy with extremely low carbon emissions. Moreover, geothermal energy is an attractive option for regions with intense geothermal activity.

Biomass is a renewable energy source involving the use of organic materials to produce energy. Biomass reduces waste, contributing to the carbon cycle by recycling CO2 into the atmosphere. The direct burning of biomass or the production of biogas by fermenting organic waste can generate heat or electricity. A clear distinction needs to be made between energy efficiency and energy conservation; the former refers to the adoption of a specific technology that reduces overall energy consumption without changing the relevant behavior, while the latter involves only a change in consumer behavior [21]. The adoption of renewable energy sources has multiple benefits, as it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions to stabilize the global climate.

In the long term, renewable sources are sustainable and inexhaustible, providing a long-term solution to humanity’s energy needs. The production and use of renewable energy has a minimal environmental impact compared to extracting and burning fossil fuels. Rapid urbanization, continued industrialization, and improved living standards have boosted energy consumption in recent years. Essentially all human activities need energy as a driving force. For a long time, fossil fuels have been the basic source for power generation [22].

Energy independence is another important aspect; countries can reduce their dependence on energy imports and improve their energy security through efficient energy management. Green technologies create industries and jobs, stimulating both economic growth and innovation. Moreover, energy efficiency and conservation are considered essential means of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving other energy policy goals [23]. Thus, the implementation of renewable energy sources is necessary both for combating climate change and for the sustainable development of the economy. While the eco-entrepreneur pursues environmental opportunities from an economic point of view, the social entrepreneur has a broader societal perspective [16]. For the social entrepreneur, societal value creation is the ultimate goal, while economic objectives are only a means to achieve societal goals.

The transportation sector has been found to be one of the most polluting sectors, as it is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Transportation accounts for almost a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions [24]. Sustainable mobility is essential in the fight against climate change. Investing in smart mobility helps to further the goals of a smart city strategy by promoting environmentally friendly transportation [25]. Experts believe that the emerging new smart mobility technologies have a significant impact on social change as well as on people’s lives in the cities of the future [26,27]. Sustainable mobility can also be very simply represented by electric vehicles, as they have become increasingly accessible to the population.

The transport sector can be transformed by sustainable technologies and practices that significantly reduce carbon emissions, thus contributing to stabilizing the global climate and creating a healthier and more pleasant urban environment. A central pillar of sustainable mobility is efficient and environmentally friendly public transport. Mobility management as defined by Farahmand et al. [28] is any action or set of actions aimed at influencing travel behavior so that sustainable mobility options are presented and personal car trips reduced.

Thus, electric trains and trams and electric or hydrogen-powered trams and buses are viable alternatives to personal cars. Among the current and future urban challenges, mobility is one of the main issues in the pursuit of sustainability [29]. Sustainable mobility reduces greenhouse gas emissions by decongesting traffic congestion, with the effect of reducing air pollution. Massive investments in public transportation infrastructure demonstrate that a well-planned system that can provide time and cost savings for users while reducing the carbon footprint of the community. Smart city policies promise to improve the quality of life for citizens. A key strategic area for such sustainability investments focuses on the introduction of smart urban mobility solutions [30].

The concept of sustainable mobility derives from sustainable development, defined as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs [31]. Governments have a very important role to play in encouraging the use of electric vehicles by providing subsidies and tax incentives and developing an extensive network of charging stations.

Delivering the same services with less energy use should reduce the burden on infrastructure, mitigate occupational hazards, reduce costs, reduce emissions of local pollutants and greenhouse gases, and reduce harmful exposures [32]. Modernizing and transforming public transport through sustainable technologies and practices can significantly reduce carbon emissions, thereby contributing to stabilizing the global climate and creating a healthier and more sustainable urban environment.

Hansemark [33] highlighted that entrepreneurial training programs train individuals to gain confidence to enhance their motives to initiate sustainable enterprises. Investments in infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, wide sidewalks, safe bicycle lanes, and parking facilities are needed as they can encourage people to adopt mobile modes of transportation. Sustainable mobility has multiple benefits, as it reduces carbon emissions but also improves public health by increasing physical activity and reducing air pollution. By juxtaposing the concepts of mobility and sustainability, we can understand sustainable mobility as a process that tends to reduce irreversible environmental degradation through the current transportation model, while satisfying the social need for accessibility [34]. Smart urbanism and urban planning with a role in reducing car dependency are necessary to mitigate negative environmental impacts. Investments in sustainable mobility are essential to combat climate change, as the effects of pollution can be significantly reduced by promoting green public transport, electric vehicles, active mobility, and smart urbanism.

In the transport sector, increased energy efficiency can be achieved through the use of fuel-efficient vehicles and the promotion of public transport. Electric and hybrid vehicles, with much lower energy consumption than traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, are an important solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. One of the greatest urban challenges of our century is transportation, and the current transportation system immediately needs changes in travel modes, strategies, planning, design, and behaviors to decrease negative transportation-related impacts [35,36].

3. Key Factors in Combating Climate Change

Taking into account the definition of sustainable entrepreneurship as the conservation of nature and sustaining life and community in the pursuit of perceived opportunities to realize future products, processes, and services for both economic and non-economic gains for individuals, the economy, and society [37], it can be a particularly important solution to combat climate change. However, actions in the energy and transport sectors alone are not enough to combat climate change; profound changes in human mindsets and behaviors are needed. Germak and Robinson [38] emphasized that participation in a sustainable entrepreneurship training program should be seen as an initial engagement in the practice of sustainable entrepreneurship.

Without an understanding of the causes and effects of climate change, people will not be motivated to take the necessary action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment. What is needed now is investment in education and awareness campaigns to mobilize effective action at individual, community, and global levels. People are not born ethical but gain moral awareness during their personal development. Ethical behavior is an exercise of freedom [39]. Climate change education needs to start at an early age and be integrated into the school curriculum.

Effective education and awareness programs must be accessible to all age groups and social groups and the educational messages and materials tailored to the various levels of understanding and interests of the audience. Furthermore, organizations believe that business school training can enable a transition into sustainable operating models [40]. Nave and Franco [41] emphasized that firms, as part of their commitment to sustainability, should behave ethically and contribute to the social and environmental well-being of society.

In order to raise public awareness about climate change, the media and governments have important roles to play. In the student context, university education has a significant effect on entrepreneurial skills and attitudes [42]. Moreover, effective media campaigns inform and sensitize large numbers of people in a short time. Documentaries, television programs, newspaper articles, and social media posts disseminate relevant information to encourage public debate. Public policies that support environmental education and sustainability can create an enabling framework for the necessary changes. Accordingly, sustainability education is considered a valid and reliable means by which more sustainable activities and lifestyles can ultimately be developed.

Raising public awareness through media and community campaigns can accelerate the adoption of environmentally friendly practices, having a positive impact on decision-makers. The growing awareness of the need for sustainable development in developed countries is due to concerns about environmental risks, which have led to popular demand for corrective and preventive action [43]. Through education, informed and responsible generations can be formed that are capable of adopting and promoting sustainable solutions.

Education is a key advancement for sustainable development and sustainable entrepreneurship, being a source of knowledge transmission, acquisition, and creation [44]. Education and public awareness are also essential to mobilize action at all levels of society, ensuring an effective transition to a sustainable energy future. Education and training are two essential aspects for practicing sustainable entrepreneurship [45]. Becker [46] stated that these two are the most important investments in human capital.

Although most often, the difference between training and education is taken for granted and used interchangeably, these two are effective in different ways. While training refers to the generic level of education at school or university, education refers to any training that facilitates the acquisition of skills [46]. Campaigns to inform and educate citizens about the benefits of energy efficiency and the measures they can take to reduce energy consumption in their daily lives can have a significant impact. Souitaris, Zerbinati, and Al-Laham [47] emphasized that educational programs support the development of entrepreneurial attitudes and intentions among potential entrepreneurs through inspiration and learning.

Sustainable agriculture is not just a set of practices but a process that requires adaptive skills [48]. Sustainable agriculture and regenerative farming practices can play a very important role in combating climate change. Innovative technologies such as vertical farming and the use of drones for crop monitoring can increase efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

An important measure to stimulate sustainable agriculture is the promotion of organic farming. Organic farming includes using natural farming methods, avoiding chemical pesticides and fertilizers, and practicing crop rotation to maintain soil fertility. It contributes to biodiversity, improves soil quality, and reduces water and air pollution. Unlike traditional entrepreneurship, which focuses mainly on increasing profits, sustainable entrepreneurship is based on the premise that entrepreneurs have the ability to create economic, social, and environmental value through their business activities [49].

Sustainable agriculture can be fostered by utilizing modern technologies and innovations in agriculture. Sustainable agriculture is an alternative to solve the fundamental problems related to food production in an environmentally friendly way [50].

Increasing agricultural productivity and efficiency involves the use of drones, sensors, and monitoring systems to optimize resource utilization and reduce wastage, which is embodied in precision agriculture. Another form of supporting sustainable agriculture is crop diversification and the integration of agroforestry practices. Crop diversification reduces the risks associated with climate change by improving soil health. Agriculture not only has to cope with climate problems, but in the form in which it has been practiced in recent decades, it is also a major cause of all these problems [51,52].

Continuous training of farmers is necessary for the successful implementation of sustainable practices. Agricultural extension and training programs support farmers to understand the benefits and methods of sustainable agriculture by adopting new technologies and practices. Stimulating sustainable agriculture can help combat climate change and ensure a sustainable future.

The circular economy is considered a transformative paradigm that promotes reuse and recycling of materials to minimize waste and environmental impact. The circular economy aims to overcome the dominant linear economic model (a traditional open economic model) and is developed without any built-in recycling bias, which is reflected by treating the environment as a reservoir of waste. The circular economy enables waste minimization and maximizes resource reuse. Entrepreneurs create sustainable, recyclable products by implementing production processes that can reduce environmental impacts. The aim of the circular economy is to replace existing open production systems based on a linear consumption model, in which raw materials are extracted, transformed into finished products, and become waste after being consumed, with closed systems that reuse resources and conserve energy [53,54,55].

The circular economy model promotes waste reduction, resource reuse, and material recycling as a viable solution to combat climate change. The main goal of the circular economy is considered to be economic prosperity, followed by environmental quality and its impact on social equity and future generations. Implementing the circular economy model contributes significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving natural resources, and promoting long-term sustainability. Within the circular economy, the priority is to solve socially significant problems: renewable energy, green buildings, natural food, carbon emissions, etc. [15].

In the circular economy, the life cycle of products is extended by using resources more efficiently and minimizing waste. The circular economy is opposed to the traditional linear economy, which is based on the idea of “production-consumption-disposal”. The circular economy could be a form of inter-organizational management for the environmental sustainability network [56,57]. The circular economy model aims to maintain the value of products, materials, and resources for as long as possible. It can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling materials. At the heart of the circular economy is eco-design.

In the new concept of circular economy, waste recovery and valorization enable the reuse of materials back into the supply chain, ultimately decoupling economic growth from environmental losses [58]. Products are designed to have a longer lifetime and to be easy to disassemble, repair, and recycle. The modular design ensures that faulty components can be easily replaced, thus extending the lifetime of products. The circular economy has undoubtedly become one of the hot topics in public debates about new and more sustainable industrial paradigms and strategies [59].

This type of economy not only saves resources but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the need to produce new goods. The circular economy is an important measure to combat climate change and promote sustainability. Firms in the circular economy are motivated to design products with extended life cycles that consume the least amount of resources and energy in their use phases and are suitable for disassembly and recovery at the end of their life [60]. By reducing waste, reusing resources, and recycling materials, the circular economy can significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving natural resources. Moving to a circular economy has become an important issue in environmental management in recent years [61]. Successful implementation of the circular economy depends on collaboration between the public and private sectors. Innovation can be fostered through partnerships between governments, companies, and non-governmental organizations to stimulate innovation and create synergies that are beneficial for all parties involved.

Sustainable entrepreneurship is closely linked to the legislative framework, which determines both the limits and the directions of development of sustainable initiatives. The European legislation on natural resource and waste management, as detailed by Lazíková and Rumanovská [62] creates a strict framework that requires entrepreneurs to adapt their practices to comply with environmental regulations. These rules not only impose limits but also open up new opportunities for entrepreneurs developing sustainable solutions, turning legislative challenges into competitive advantages. Such regulations require contractors to comply with strict environmental standards, which can limit certain economic activities but can also stimulate innovation in resource efficiency.

Environmental legislation, such as the constitutional protection of water resources in Slovakia, as discussed by Pertáček Peráček et al. [63], is an example of how national regulations can set a high standard for the protection of natural resources necessary for healthy ecosystems. Within this framework, sustainable entrepreneurship is forced to operate within well-defined boundaries, which can incentivize innovation in resource efficiency. These laws thus create a favorable environment for innovative businesses that prioritize sustainability. The circular economy is becoming a new vision of resource use, energy, value creation, and entrepreneurship [64]. Public information and education are necessary for the success of the circular economy. A well-informed public is more likely to adopt sustainable behaviors such as recycling, reusing products, and reducing food waste. The complexity of sustainability education emphasizes the importance of adopting life-cycle thinking, as it is essential for sustainable development [65]. Widespread adoption of the circular economy both helps to protect the environment and creates economic and social opportunities, ensuring a more sustainable future for future generations. Sustainable entrepreneurship education needs to provide skills that enable entrepreneurs to make decisions that take into account environmental and social impacts as well as economic consequences [66]. In a circular economy model, electronic devices are designed to be more easily repairable and retrofitted, and valuable materials such as rare metals and other components are recovered and reused in new products. So, this model not only reduces waste, but it also reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with the extraction and processing of raw materials.

Renewable energy sources have significant potential to contribute to economic, social, and environmental energy sustainability. They improve energy access for the majority of the population, reduce emissions of local and global pollutants, and can create local opportunities for socioeconomic development [67]. The use of high-efficiency electric motors and automated control systems in industry can lead to significant energy savings and reduced carbon emissions.

Increasing energy efficiency is an important component in combating climate change. Investments in energy efficiency not only reduce costs and conserve resources but also create a healthier and more sustainable environment for future generations. Training in sustainable entrepreneurship helps enthusiasts acquire the skills and abilities needed to start sustainable businesses [68,69,70].

Therefore, the energy sector is an important area for increasing energy efficiency. Upgrading power plants to make them more efficient and transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower are necessary to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, modern technologies that allow real-time monitoring and management of energy consumption and production have a very important role to play in tackling climate change, and government policies and regulations are essential to boost energy efficiency.

Based on the literature review, we identified the following influential factors to combat climate change:

• Implementation of renewable energy sources (IRE);
• Investment in sustainable mobility (ISM);
• Education and awareness (EA);
• Stimulating sustainable agriculture (SSA);
• Increasing energy efficiency (IEE);
• Implementing a circular economy model (ICE).

Based on the above findings, the research proposition is formulated as follows:

Research proposition: The multiple causal configurations of the antecedent conditions, namely implementation of renewable energy sources (IRE), investment in sustainable mobility (ISM), education and awareness (EA), stimulation of sustainable agriculture (SSA), increase in energy efficiency (IEE), and implementation of a circular economy model (ICE), show a significant influence on climate change mitigation (CCC).

4. Research Methodology

This research involved 234 entrepreneurs from Romania. Data were collected through a thematic questionnaire consisting of 30 questions, distributed to specific groups of Romanian entrepreneurs between 1 July and 27 August 2024. The aim of the research was to analyze the implications of innovative strategies for sustainable entrepreneurship and to identify relevant solutions to combat climate change. The collected answers were further processed using fsQCA software in order to identify the most effective solutions to combat climate change. In this paper, we perform a qualitative–comparative analysis that focuses on the complex relationships between several conditions (variables) and an outcome (phenomenon) of interest specific to climate change. The software used for data processing is a useful tool for research aimed at identifying the combinations of necessary and sufficient conditions that lead to a given outcome. In fsQCA research, necessity analysis is taken into account because it indicates a causal relationship between a given condition and the studied outcome. In other words, it shows whether the presence of a condition is necessary for the occurrence of the outcome. Thus, in the context of combating climate change, the desired outcome can only occur if the specified condition is present.

Necessity analysis in the context of tackling climate change helps us to identify those conditions without which the desired outcome cannot be achieved. By using fsQCA, we are able to analyze combinations of conditions that are not only necessary but also sufficient to produce the desired outcome. This type of analysis allows us to better understand the complex interactions between different variables and to identify those sets of conditions that, in combination, lead to the success of climate change measures. Qualitative-comparative analysis using fsQCA provides a deep insight into the relationships between the various conditions and the desired outcome in combating climate change. By identifying necessary conditions and combinations of sufficient conditions, this research contributes to the development of effective and well-informed strategies to address one of the greatest challenges of our times.

The main aim is to identify combinations of factors that collectively lead to sustainable outcomes rather than to test simple cause–effect relationships. In the context of this research, we focused on identifying and analyzing causal configurations that demonstrate how the interactions between these factors contribute to combating climate change. This research aims to address the question of how can sustainable entrepreneurship contribute to combating climate change by exploring how each of these conditions collectively influences outcomes in terms of entrepreneurial sustainability and environmental impact. Through the fsQCA method, the research examined the combinations of factors identified from the literature that can significantly contribute to climate change mitigation and suggests that entrepreneurs can adopt integrated approaches to maximize positive environmental impacts.

The antecedent conditions used in this research involving the fsQCA method include deployment of renewable energy sources (REI), investment in sustainable mobility (ISM), education and awareness (EA), stimulation of sustainable agriculture (SSA), increased energy efficiency (IEE), and implementation of a circular economy model (ICE), and the targeted outcome is combating climate change (CCC). Figure 1 shows the conceptual model underlying the present research.

In

Table 1. Subjects addressed in the realization of variables.

Variable	Subjects Addressed
Implementation of renewable energy sources (IRE) through	>- Implementation of renewable energy sources to reduce the operational costs of a business in the long term; - Greater commitment from entrepreneurs to adopt renewables, even if this involves higher upfront costs; - Developing and using renewable energy technologies as a priority activity in governments’ environment and energy policies; - Renewable energy innovation to stimulate economic growth and create green jobs.
>Investing in sustainable mobility (ISM) through	>- Investment in bicycle infrastructure and pedestrian facilities to encourage alternative means of transportation; - Connectivity between transport modes and promotion of intermodality to improve the efficiency and sustainability of transport systems; - Innovation in sustainable transport technologies such as autonomous vehicles and car-sharing systems to help reduce congestion and CO2 emissions; - Implementing smart technologies and digital solutions in transportation to better manage traffic and reduce pollution; - Innovation to find effective solutions to combat climate change.
>Education and awareness (EA) through	>- Using media and social networks to promote environmental and sustainability messages; - The active role of business in educating and raising awareness of sustainable practices among employees and customers; - Supporting and promoting environmental education and awareness raising initiatives by non-governmental organizations and local communities; - Promoting climate change education and environmental practices as an integral part of the education system.
>Stimulating sustainable agriculture (SSA) through	>- Supporting small farmers and local producers to incentivize sustainable agriculture to promote the local economy; - Co-operation between the agricultural sector, the food sector, and governments to help develop and implement more sustainable policies and practices in food production and distribution; - Promotion of organic farming and organic production methods to reduce the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers while protecting biodiversity; - Adopting sustainable farming practices such as precision farming and crop rotation to help reduce environmental impacts.
>Increasing energy efficiency (IEE) through	>- Modernizing and optimizing industrial processes with the aim of reducing energy consumption in order to contribute to increased energy efficiency; - Adopting energy-efficiency technologies in buildings and infrastructures to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions; - Investing in energy-efficiency research and development to generate innovations and advanced technological solutions to reduce energy consumption; - Implementation of more stringent energy-efficiency standards and regulations to incentivize businesses to adopt more sustainable practices; - Governments providing financial incentives and facilities for innovative businesses that develop sustainable environmental solutions.
Implementing a circular economy (ICE) model through	- Implementation of a circular economy model to significantly reduce a company’s waste; - Collaboration between different industries to make the circular economy more efficient; - Adoption of circular economy practices to stimulate innovation and creativity among businesses and entrepreneurs; - Collaboration between different sectors—public, private, and academic—to develop and implement effective circular economy practices.

, we present the topics addressed in the realization of the variables.

We believe that all these actions can determine the fight against climate change.

5. The fsQCA Approach

FsQCA is an important method for researchers seeking to investigate the complex causality of phenomena, to integrate qualitative and quantitative data into their research, and to understand the interactions between conditions that lead to specific outcomes. It has become an increasingly popular method in the social sciences because of its ability to handle complex cases and to contribute to a thorough theoretical understanding of the phenomenon under study. FsQCA is used in social science research to analyze qualitative data and identify complex patterns of causation or configuration. This method allows the combination of qualitative and quantitative data, which is essential for the multifaceted approach to climate change. The fsQCA method allows analyzing complex relationships between the variables under study. Due to its ability to combine qualitative and quantitative data, this method has proven essential for a better understanding of innovative strategies in sustainable entrepreneurship and their impact on tackling climate change. fsQCA is known for its ability to identify combinations of factors (or variables) that are necessary or sufficient for specific outcomes. This is essential for research involving complex variables and non-linear relationships, such as innovative strategies in sustainable entrepreneurship. fsQCA is well suited for studies where it is important to determine which combinations of conditions lead to particular outcomes. In the context of climate challenges, the method can contribute to the formulation of effective solutions by identifying those combinations of strategic factors that have proven to be effective in real-world contexts.

Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) is an asymmetric data analysis technique that combines the logic and empirical intensity of qualitative approaches, which are rich in contextual information, with quantitative methods that deal with large numbers of cases and are more generalizable than symmetric theory and tools. Asymmetry arises when different causal paths lead to different outcomes, and equivalence refers to different combinations of causal conditions leading to the same outcome. FsQCA helps to identify these patterns and elucidate how different conditions interact to produce specific outcomes.

FsQCA allows researchers in the social sciences to identify complex patterns of conditions that lead to specific outcomes. FsQCA is a unique combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches and allows researchers to integrate qualitative data, such as case studies or interviews, with quantitative data in the form of Boolean algebra (0 and 1). In this way, researchers can capitalize on the strengths of qualitative and quantitative analysis. By uncovering complex causal configurations, fsQCA contributes to theory building and testing. Moreover, it allows researchers to refine and develop theories that capture the complexity of social phenomena and test them against empirical data.

5.1. Calibration of Fuzzy Sets

The fsQCA method is commonly used in social science research to analyze complex causal relationships, the goal being to identify the best combination of conditions that determines the expected outcome. The calibration process is important in fsQCA because it transforms the original data into so-called fuzzy datasets, allowing a more nuanced analysis of complex causal relationships between conditions and outcome.

In fuzzy-set comparative–qualitative analysis, the calibration process refers to the systematic assignment of membership scores for each condition or variable under study. Calibration is essential in fsQCA because research in this software deals with fuzzy crowds, which allow a more detailed representation of reality compared to traditional binary logic (0/1). Calibration assigns membership scores to the cases, indicating the degree to which a case belongs to a certain condition.

This fuzzy-set representation captures complexity and ambiguity, essential aspects present in many real-world social phenomena. Using calibration, we assigned membership scores because fsQCA can indicate cases that fall between the two binary categories. In many real-life situations, cases may not fit perfectly in the presence or absence of a condition but may exhibit partial membership. Calibration therefore allows the analysis to take these intermediate cases into account.

IRE, ISM, EA, SSA, SSA, IEE, ICE, and CCC are the variable labels considered in the present research. In fsQCA, conditions are represented by the independent variables analyzed in relation to an expected outcome. The membership scores in fsQCA range from 0 to 1, where 0 indicates that the case does not belong to the condition at all, and 1 indicates that the case fully belongs to the condition.

In the present research, we calibrated the data as follows: The value of 5 represents the highest membership score assigned to a case for the given condition, indicating maximum membership. The value 3 is an intermediate membership score and reflects that a case partially belongs to the established condition. The value 1 represents the lowest membership score assigned to a case for the set condition and implies that the case has a very low or minimal membership to the set condition. In the conceptual model, we measured each antecedent condition by a 5-point scale, from very high (total agreement) to very low (total disagreement), and the outcome was rated by a separate 5-point scale, from fully fit to very poorly fit. Fuzzy-sets QCA indicate two types of configurations that include necessary and sufficient conditions.

Calibration allows researchers to analyze and interpret data that do not fit into strict binary categories, and fsQCA is applicable to a wide range of research topics. Calibration facilitates the identification of different configurations of conditions that lead to a specific outcome. Research in fsQCA determines three anchors for the calibration of fuzzy sets; thus, the first anchor indicates complete membership, the second anchor defines partial membership, and the third anchor indicates complete lack of membership. Thus, calibration is essential in fsQCA because it allows for a more flexible and accurate representation of the data, addresses uncertainties, increases the robustness of the results, and facilitates the analysis of complex social phenomena. The calibration process allows us to uncover specific patterns and configurations that could not be known using traditional binary logic methods.

5.2. Fuzzy-Set Value Distribution and Truth Table Analysis

In the comparative–qualitative analysis of fuzzy sets by fsQCA, the distribution of fuzzy-set values refers to the type of membership scores assigned to the cases in the truth table after the calibration process. As stated in the previous section, the calibration process involves transforming the raw data into fuzzy sets, where each case is assigned a membership score between 0 and 1, indicating the degree of membership in a given fuzzy set.

In fsQCA, cases are assigned membership scores to represent the extent to which they satisfy the conditions that define the fuzzy set. A membership score of 0 means that the case does not fulfill any of the conditions, while a score of 1 indicates that the case fully fulfills all conditions. Scores between 0 and 1 reflect partial membership, indicating varying degrees of compliance with the fuzzy-set conditions.

The distribution of fuzzy-set values provides some insights into the pattern of cases that have varying degrees of relevance to the outcome under study. Cases with higher membership scores are considered more relevant to the expected outcome, while cases with lower scores are less relevant. The distribution helps in identifying cases that form clear conditions of the outcome, highlighting cases that are not solutions to the desired outcome, and presenting cases that are ambiguous and fall near the fuzzy-crowd boundary. Cases with membership scores close to 0.5 are considered ambiguous because they have an equal degree of conformance and nonconformance with the fuzzy-set conditions. Cases with membership scores close to 1 or 0 are referred to as extreme values. These cases are clear cases of meeting or not meeting the conditions that define the fuzzy set and play an extremely important role in modeling the outcome.

The distribution of fuzzy-set values can have implications for the analysis and interpretation of fsQCA results. Understanding the distribution of fuzzy-set values is vital in fsQCA because it allows us to identify relevant cases, ambiguous cases, and extreme cases, which leads to a deeper understanding of causal configurations and their relationship to the outcome of interest.

Truth table analysis involves a systematic examination of the data to identify patterns and relationships between the variables under study. The truth table is a central component of fsQCA and represents the combinations of input conditions (variables or factors) and their outcomes. Each row in the truth table corresponds to a specific combination of conditions and outcomes. By examining the truth table, we can identify patterns and relationships between conditions and outcomes of interest. This analysis allows us to detect specific combinations of conditions that are associated with the outcome.

The resulting combinations represent the causal configurations that lead to the occurrence or absence of the outcome and provide valuable insights into the complexity of causality in the phenomenon under study. The truth table shows the number of conditions and their different combinations, giving an idea of the complexity involved in explaining the outcome. By analyzing the truth table, we can see how different factors interact and contribute together to the outcome, providing a deeper understanding of causality than traditional methods. We then use the information from the truth table to develop solution formulas that describe the different causal pathways and their relevance to the outcome of interest. Using the truth table, we can calculate all possible combinations that can occur within the model under analysis. When calculating the possible configurations, the frequency, i.e., the number of observations for each configuration, is presented.

Table 2. Analysis of the truth table for combating climate change.

cIRE	cISM	cEA	cSSA	cIEE	cICE	Number	cCCC	Raw Consist.	PRI. Consist.	SYM Consist.
1	0	0	0	0	0	1	1	1	1	1
0	1	0	1	0	1	1	1	1	1	1
0	0	1	1	1	1	2	1	0.997643	0.990807	1
0	0	0	0	0	0	3	1	0.997107	0.985959	1
1	1	1	0	1	0	2	1	0.996777	0.988487	0.995858
0	1	1	1	1	1	2	1	0.993661	0.983060	0.983060
1	0	1	1	1	1	5	1	0.988834	0.966375	0.966375
1	1	1	1	1	1	173	1	0.963085	0.950147	0.998769

shows the different configurations of cases obtained from the data processing. The truth table analysis is important both for identifying causal sufficiency patterns and for realizing the combinations of conditions that are necessary for the outcome. We can observe that eight configurations were distinguished in the research sample.

In fsQCA, consistency is an important concept that assesses the reliability and quality of data. Consistency is used to assess the degree to which the data in the truth table contribute to the research proposition in the fsQCA. Raw consistency refers to the overall consistency of the truth table and indicates the extent to which the empirical (raw) data support the identified causal configurations. The raw consistency values are the following: 1, 1, 0.997643, 0.997107, 0.996777, 0.993661, 0.988834, and 0.963085. These values indicate that the predicted model results agree with the observed results to a large extent. A higher raw consistency value suggests a higher degree of agreement between cases with the same combination of conditions.

PRI consistency is used to assess the consistency of the model in terms of the relationship between the observed outcomes and the predicted outcomes based on the causal configurations derived from the dataset. The consistency ratio, also known as the PRI, is a measure of how well the predicted model results match the actual observed results. The PRI consistency values are the following: 1, 1, 0.990807, 0.985959, 0.988487, 0.983060, 0.966375, and 0.950147. These values indicate a high level of alignment of the predicted model results with the observed results considering the distribution of the data.

SYM consistency refers to situations in which the outcome variable is symmetric (both high and low values are significant). Symmetry in fsQCA means that the solutions for the expected outcome are reflected in two complementary sets of conditions. The high consistency of the symmetry suggests that the truth table demonstrates a balanced representation of the different causal paths leading to the outcome. SYM consistency assesses the symmetry between predicted outcomes and observed outcomes. SYM consistency values are the following: 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 0.995858, 0.983060, 0.966375, and 0.998769. These values indicate a high level of symmetry between the predicted model results and the observed results.

For the present research, the high values of raw consistency, PRI consistency, and SYM consistency indicate high model fit and high accuracy in explaining the observed results. Thus, all three consistency values generally show similar trends. The values of PRI consistency and SYM consistency are lower than the raw consistency, which was to be expected, as they are stricter measures and take into account the distribution and symmetry of the data points.

Therefore, truth table analysis allows researchers to identify complex causal configurations and draw conclusions about the relationships between conditions and the resulting variable of interest. Truth table analysis in fsQCA involves examining combinations of conditions, calculating truth table indices, identifying causal configurations, and drawing meaningful conclusions about complex causal relationships between conditions and the outcome variable.

5.3. The XoY Plan

The XoY plan determines whether a particular condition is necessary to achieve the desired outcome while also specifying the level of consistency for the condition being analyzed. The consistency score reflects the degree to which a combination of causality leads to an outcome. The coverage score indicates the number of cases with an outcome that is reflected by a specific causal condition. The consistency score indicates that a combination of the six antecedent conditions is sufficient to achieve a high degree of climate change mitigation: deployment of renewable energy sources, investments in sustainable mobility, education and awareness, stimulation of sustainable agriculture, increased energy efficiency, and implementation of a circular economy model.

The more cases there are in plan oY, the more important X proves to be for Y. In the case of combating climate change, it can be seen that the majority of cases are in the oY plane. Of the 234 cases, 225 cases are in the oY plane, and 9 cases are diagonal (Figure 2). Also, the majority of the cases have a membership of more than 0.8. Thus, it can be stated that the six antecedent conditions, namely implementation of renewable energy sources (REI), investment in sustainable mobility (ISM), education and awareness (EA), stimulation of sustainable agriculture (SSA), increase in energy efficiency (IEE), and implementation of a circular economy model (ICE), have a significant influence on the climate change phenomenon.

The XoY plane, also known as the calibration diagram, is a graphical tool used in comparative–qualitative analysis of fuzzy sets to visualize the degree of membership of cases in a fuzzy set. It is particularly useful for understanding how well the fuzzy sets match the empirical data because it helps to assess the overall quality of the calibration process.

The XoY plot shows the degree of membership of each case in the fuzzy set. The X-axis typically represents the cases, i.e., the respondents’ answers, and the Y-axis represents the membership scores ranging from 0 to 1. Each case is represented by a point on the diagram, and its position on the Y-axis indicates its degree of membership in the fuzzy set.

Cases relevant to the expected outcome should have higher membership scores, as they indicate a stronger association with the conditions defining the fuzzy set. Cases that are less relevant show lower membership scores. The XoY diagram can reveal cases that fall near the fuzzy-set boundary, with membership scores close to 0.5. These cases are considered ambiguous because they do not belong to the fuzzy crowd.

The identification of ambiguous cases is essential, as they may affect the results and the interpretation of the analysis. The XoY plot allows us to check the sensitivity of the calibration process to changes in the membership score thresholds. The XoY plot is a valuable tool in fsQCA, as it provides a visual representation of the membership scores of the fuzzy set, helping to interpret and validate the calibration process.

In fsQCA the Quine–McCluskey algorithm refers to a specific method used for simplifying logical expressions or Boolean functions. It is commonly used to analyze data in the form of truth tables, especially in cases where there are multiple conditions (variables) and outcomes. Quine–McCluskey is an algorithm used to find the parsimonious solution (simplest) logical expression that reflects the relationships between the conditions and the result in a truth table.

The Quine–McCluskey algorithm determines complex solutions that reflect valuable information about combinations of antecedent conditions that influence the outcome. The combinations of antecedent conditions are shown in

Table 3. Complex solutions offered by the Quine–McCluskey algorithm for combating climate change.

	Raw Coverage	Unique Coverage	Consistency
cEA*cSSA*cIEE*cICE	0.878647	0.627673	0.944835
~cIRE*cISM*~cEA*cSSA*~cIEE*cICE	0.200674	0.00373966	1
cIRE*cISM*cEA*~cSSA*cIEE*~cICE	0.228063	0.00237024	0.996777
solution coverage: 0.892552
solution consistency: 0.944699

In the context of data processing in fsQCA—Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Qualitative Analysis, the symbol * is used to indicate that the variables in the research are combined in a conditional term, i.e. in an intersection relation between different data sets. The * symbol represents a combination of the fuzzy sets corresponding to each variable in the solution and is an indicator of the intersection between the respective conditions in the fsQCA analysis. Each variable in the combination is associated with a fuzzy value, and their combination helps to identify the conditions that must be met for a given configuration to produce a specific result.

and represent effective solutions to combat climate change.

The first solution, cEA*cSSA*cIEE*cICE, provided by the Quine–McCluskey algorithm gave a consistency of 0.944835, suggesting the combination of education and awareness, stimulating sustainable agriculture, increasing energy efficiency, and implementing a circular economy model to combat climate change.

The second combination, ~cIRE*cISM*~cEA*cSSA*~cIEE*cICE, obtained a consistency of 1 and represents the combination of the deployment of renewable energy sources, investments in sustainable mobility, education and awareness, stimulation of sustainable agriculture, increase in energy efficiency, and implementation of a circular economy model. The ~ sign in front of cIRE, cEA, and cIEE conditions indicates a low level of these conditions in the final outcome or even their absence. The absence of some conditions may be as important as their presence in determining the final outcome. Thus, we can summarize for the second condition, with the resulting solution represented by the absence of the cIRE condition, the presence of the cISM condition, the absence of the cEA condition, the presence of the cSSA condition, the absence of the cIEE condition, and the presence of the cICE condition.

The third combination, cIRE*cISM*cISM*cEA*~cSSA*cIEE*~cICE, obtained a consistency of 0.996777 and represents a combination between the implementation of renewable energy sources, investments in sustainable mobility, education and awareness, stimulation of sustainable agriculture, increase in energy efficiency, and implementation of a circular economy model. In summary, the third resulting solution is represented by the presence of the cIRE condition, the presence of the cISM condition, the presence of the cEA condition, the absence of the cSSA condition, the presence of the cIEE condition, and the absence of the cICE condition.

The fsQCA software allows researchers to test for the conditions necessary to fulfill a particular outcome (

Table 4. Necessary conditions for the achievement of the result.

Conditions Tested	Consistency	Coverage
cEA + cISM + cIRE + cSSA	0.966238	0.904185
cISM + cIEE + cSSA + cISM	0.961340	0.910053
cISM + cSSA + cICE	0.953387	0.918041
cISM + cEA + cIEE	0.950279	0.913704
cEA + cSSA + cICE	0.949384	0.920677

). Therefore, we tested six causal combinations, other than those resulting from the application of the Quine–McCluskey algorithm, at the sample level.

The condition cEA + cISM + cISM + cIRE + cSSA has the highest consistency of 0.966238 and represents the combination of education and awareness, investment in sustainable mobility, deployment of renewable energy sources, and incentivizing sustainable agriculture to combat climate change. Education has an important role to play in shaping a climate-aware population, encouraging responsible behavior and supporting green policies. Sustainable mobility, through investments in green public transport and electric vehicles, contributes to reducing emissions from the transport sector, one of the main global polluters. In addition, the transition to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power is an important step in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, sustainable agriculture based on environmentally friendly practices such as crop rotation and reduced resource consumption can help reduce pollution and protect biodiversity. Combined, these measures can form a comprehensive strategy to combat the effects of climate change and build a sustainable future.

The second tested condition, cISM + cIEE + cSSA + cISM, showed a consistency of 0.961340 and represents the combination of investments in sustainable mobility, increasing energy efficiency, stimulating sustainable agriculture, and investments in sustainable mobility to combat climate change. Green transport investments such as expanding public transport networks and infrastructure for electric vehicles help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality in urban areas. Increasing energy efficiency through the implementation of modern technologies in buildings and industry can also reduce energy consumption and costs, thus reducing dependence on polluting sources.

Moreover, stimulating sustainable agriculture by adopting environmentally friendly practices has a significant impact on resource conservation and carbon sequestration. The use of organic fertilizers and efficient irrigation methods help maintain soil health and reduce emissions associated with intensive agriculture. Integrating these initiatives creates a cohesive system that not only minimizes environmental impacts but also supports sustainable economic development, ensuring a cleaner and more equitable future for all communities. Combining these measures can create a key strategy to combat climate change.

The third tested condition, cISM + cSSA + cICE, yielded a consistency of 0.953387 and represents the combination of investments in sustainable mobility, stimulation of sustainable agriculture, and implementation of a circular economy model to combat climate change. Investments in sustainable mobility, such as the development of green public transport infrastructure and electric vehicles, contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. These initiatives not only facilitate cleaner travel but also support the transition to more sustainable cities where people can have access to efficient and environmentally friendly transport solutions. Stimulating sustainable agriculture through organic practices helps conserve natural resources and reduce the emissions associated with food production. Implementing a circular economy model complements these efforts by promoting recycling and reuse of resources, thereby reducing waste and environmental impact. In a circular economy, products are designed to be reused and recycled, which minimizes waste and optimizes the use of resources. Integrating these strategies creates a cohesive system that not only helps to mitigate the effects of climate change but also promotes sustainable economic development and increased quality of life. These combined conditions can represent a key integrated approach in the fight against climate change.

The fourth combination, cISM + cISM + cEA + cIEE, showed a consistency of 0.950279 and represents the combination of investments in sustainable mobility, education and awareness, and increased energy efficiency to combat climate change. Investments in mobility, such as the development of green public transport infrastructure and the promotion of electric vehicles, help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality in urban areas. These initiatives not only facilitate cleaner mobility but also help to create more sustainable cities where citizens can access efficient and environmentally friendly transport alternatives. In addition, education and raising awareness are necessary to shape a responsible society committed to protecting the environment. Educational campaigns can encourage green behavior and raise awareness of the importance of energy efficiency. Increased energy efficiency, through the implementation of modern technologies in buildings, industries, and transportation, contributes to reducing resource consumption and associated emissions. By integrating these strategies, a cohesive system is created that not only helps to combat climate change but also promotes sustainable economic development and improved quality of life for communities.

The last condition, cEA + cSSA + cICE, obtained a consistency of 0.949384 and represents the combination of education and awareness, stimulation of sustainable agriculture, and implementation of a circular economy model to combat climate change. Education and raising awareness play a fundamental role in informing the public about the impact of human activities on the environment and the importance of adopting sustainable practices. Through awareness-raising campaigns and educational programs, people can learn about the benefits of sustainable agriculture, which uses environmentally sound techniques to conserve natural resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Encouraging sustainable agriculture by promoting practices such as crop rotation, organic fertilizers, and efficient water management helps to maintain soil health and increase biodiversity. Implementing a circular economy model complements these efforts by reducing waste and promoting the reuse of resources. By designing products to be recycled and encouraging responsible consumption, the circular economy minimizes environmental impact and supports a more sustainable production system. This integrated approach not only helps to combat climate change but also to make communities more resilient and aware of their role in protecting the planet. These combined conditions make it possible to formulate an essential integrated strategy in the fight against climate change.

6. Discussions

Hart and Milstein [71] stated in 1999 that innovators and entrepreneurs will consider sustainable development as one of the greatest business opportunities in the history of commerce. The concept of sustainable entrepreneurship has gained particular importance in recent years [2]. Thus, education and awareness have become essential tools for the formation of informed and responsible generations capable of adopting and promoting sustainable solutions to combat climate change. Increasing awareness of global social and environmental challenges has led many academics to reconceptualize the notion of entrepreneurship, which is no longer just a wealth-generating activity but an endeavor that must also include elements of social and environmental good in its mission [72].

Moreover, the implementation of mandatory standards for the inclusion of climate change in school and university curricula, financial support for educational and awareness-raising projects, and collaboration with non-governmental organizations and local communities are important steps in this process. Green entrepreneurs often focus on sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, green products, and waste management. Educational programs have a notable impact on the entrepreneurial attitudes of budding entrepreneurs [73].

Education on sustainability and the circular economy can start at a young age by its integration into the school curriculum and continuing throughout life through vocational training and information campaigns. The options vary according to the audience: continuing education courses, seminars and workshops focusing on sustainable practices in everyday life, and meetings and discussions organized by local communities to address their specificities and particular needs. The principle of sustainability needs to be integrated into people’s lives, both in daily and economic activities.

Most innovations aimed at addressing the causes or impacts of climate change are technologically complex and are associated with a higher degree of risk and uncertainty [74]. The integration of sustainability into a company’s activities is marked by high complexity and uncertainty due to different and often competing requirements and objectives, requiring organizations to simultaneously derive economic, social, and environmental value [75,76].

As the effects of climate change become increasingly evident, innovation is expected to play a major role in facilitating national and sub-national decarbonization processes [77]. A key aspect of sustainability, both in education and in practice, is the transition to the use of renewable energy resources. Renewable energy resources play an important role in the future of the world. Energy resources have been divided into three categories: fossil fuels, renewable resources, and nuclear resources [78]. Renewable wind and solar energy sources can decrease dependence on fossil fuels to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of society.

Climate change endangers the quality and availability of some resources such as food and water [79]. Moreover, the use of renewable energy sources generates long-term savings, creating new business opportunities and jobs. There is a need to learn about natural phenomena and the impact of human activities on the climate and the solutions available to combat these problems. Correctly presented information about renewable energy, recycling, the conservation of natural resources, and sustainable agriculture can cultivate early awareness and a responsible attitude towards the environment.

Energy efficiency can also be supported by upgrading existing energy infrastructure. Improving energy efficiency can be achieved by optimizing production processes and adopting advanced technologies. The use of more efficient equipment, waste heat recovery, and the implementation of energy management systems can significantly reduce energy consumption and operational costs.

Shepherd and Patzelt [37] argued that if entrepreneurs want to create a successful business that contributes to the sustainable development of society, they need to incorporate and adapt sustainability into their business strategy. A key element of such a strategy is increasing energy efficiency, which can be a very effective measure to combat climate change. The efficient use of energy resources reduces greenhouse gas emissions, reduces dependence on fossil fuels, and promotes long-term sustainability. In this way, entrepreneurs can not only improve their financial performance but also actively contribute to protecting the environment and ensuring a sustainable future for their communities.

Energy efficiency brings financial savings as well as environmental and social benefits, helping to create a cleaner and healthier environment. Improving energy distribution networks to reduce losses and optimize the flow of energy can make a significant contribution to increasing the efficiency of the energy system as a whole. Implementing strict energy-efficiency standards for buildings, vehicles, and equipment, as well as providing financial incentives for the uptake of efficient technologies, can accelerate the transition to more sustainable energy consumption. By adopting responsible consumption habits, every individual can contribute to reducing global energy consumption and combating climate change.

Green entrepreneurship is a fundamental driver of the green economy [80]. Significant technological developments in recent years have fostered the emergence of sustainable agriculture. Sustainable agriculture has a particular role in increasing production efficiency by reducing water and energy consumption. Technological innovations to combat climate change ensure long-term food security. Moreover, agriculture is both a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and a sector vulnerable to extreme climate impacts. Sustainable agricultural practices reduce carbon emissions, supporting the conservation of natural resources and ensuring long-term food security.

Sustainable entrepreneurship is a distinctive concept that combines the creation of economic, social, and environmental value with its focus on the well-being of future generations [81]. Innovative technologies such as vertical farming and the use of drones to monitor crops can be used to increase efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. By promoting sustainable agriculture, water can be conserved by efficient irrigation, and the use of water-saving technologies such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting can significantly reduce water consumption in agriculture. In addition, effective government policies have the potential to incentivize sustainable agriculture through subsidies and financial incentives as well as regulations that promote sustainable use of resources, encouraging farmers to adopt sustainable methods.

Sustainable entrepreneurship as a way to address inequality and environmental degradation is increasingly recognized by researchers, practitioners, and policy makers [76,82,83]. Through environmentally sound practices, the use of modern technologies, crop diversification, and government support, agriculture can be transformed into a resilient and environmentally friendly sector. Farmers need to benefit from training and awareness programs ensuring a transition to a sustainable farming system that protects the environment and ensures long-term food security. In this context, the role of entrepreneurs is crucial. The entrepreneur with superior personal qualities takes advantage of change, which leads to a range of entrepreneurial actions, such as the introduction of new products, new production methods, new (geographical) markets, and new ways of organizing business processes [84].

7. Conclusions

By adopting the circular economy, entrepreneurs have the ability to reduce operational costs and, at the same time, respond to growing consumer demands for environmentally friendly products and services. The circular economy can be seen as an opportunity for competitive differentiation in the marketplace. Theoretically, sustainable entrepreneurs deliver sustainable innovations that transform market imperfections into business opportunities, replace unsustainable forms of production and consumption, and create value for a wide range of stakeholders [85,86].

By integrating the principles of the circular economy, these entrepreneurs not only optimize resources and reduce waste but also contribute to redefining value in a sustainable and innovative way, thereby strengthening their position in the market and having a positive impact on society and the environment.

Another important aspect to explore in taking action to combat climate change is urban mobility. Urban mobility is one of the main issues in the pursuit of sustainability. Thus, by combining education with concrete actions and effective public policies, we can make significant progress towards a greener and more sustainable future for all. Building on the explanation of the concept that transport systems must respond to the economic, social, and environmental needs of society while minimizing their undesirable impacts on the economy, society, and the environment [87], urban mobility must be integrated as a mandatory part of the fight against climate change.

Upgrading energy infrastructure, adopting advanced technologies, promoting sustainable transport, and implementing stringent policies and regulations can significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment. One of the vectors of action to improve the overall sustainability of industries is mobility, especially of their employees, which is aimed at reducing the environmental, economic, and social impacts on the enterprise and society at large [28,88]. Passenger mobility plays an important role in both the economy and society [89].

Improving public transport infrastructure and encouraging its use reduces the number of private vehicles on the roads, thus contributing to lower fuel consumption and pollution. To be able to recognize sustainable development as a business opportunity, sustainable entrepreneurs need both opportunity recognition skills and interpersonal skills that enable them to interact with stakeholders, learn from them, and adapt quickly [90,91].

Integrating sustainability principles into education and entrepreneurship is therefore necessary to combat climate change and promote a sustainable future. Education and public awareness are mandatory for the formation of informed and responsible generations capable of adopting and implementing innovative and sustainable solutions. Well-structured educational programs supported by adequate funding and collaborations with various organizations can transform attitudes and behaviors, having a positive influence on both personal and professional levels. These initiatives prepare future entrepreneurs to integrate sustainability into their business strategies, thus contributing to sustainable economic development. Human capital plays a predominant role in moderating individuals’ intentions to create ventures [92] and the firm’s potential to engage in combined value creation [93]. Sustainable agriculture is essential for human survival, especially given our rapidly growing population [94].

Instead of relying on purchased materials such as fertilizer, a sustainable farm relies as much as possible on beneficial natural processes and renewable resources extracted from the farm itself [95]. Moreover, the adoption and promotion of green technologies such as renewable energy sources and energy efficiency are very important for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment. Sustainable agriculture contributes directly to long-term food security by reducing resource consumption and carbon emissions. There are many issues that threaten the ability of agriculture to meet human needs now and in the future, including climate change; a high rate of biodiversity loss; land degradation through soil erosion, compaction, salinization, and pollution; depletion and pollution of water resources; rising production costs; a declining number of farms; and, related to this, poverty and a declining rural population [96].

The circular economy represents a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs to create value through sustainable innovation and operational efficiency. Sustainable urban mobility, by improving public transport infrastructure and reducing the use of private vehicles, contributes to reducing pollution and fossil fuel consumption. Through effective approaches and public policies, sustainable development can become a catalyst for economic, social, and environmental progress, ensuring a greener and more prosperous future for all generations. By carrying out this research, we have gained valuable insights and solutions that can be applied to the fight against climate change, answering the initial research question: How can sustainable entrepreneurship contribute to combating climate change?

Therefore, sustainable entrepreneurship ensures, through the implementation of innovative strategies the promotion and implementation of green practices, the development of innovative and sustainable technologies, favoring the creation of business models that reduce negative environmental impacts. By integrating sustainability into their strategies, entrepreneurs can turn market imperfections into business opportunities, replacing unsustainable forms of production and consumption with green alternatives. In doing so, sustainable entrepreneurs contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a greener and more sustainable future.

8. Limitations of the Study

Our study, while making significant contributions to the field of research, has certain limitations that are worth discussing. Firstly, focusing on a single study context may limit the generalizability of the results. While the findings are relevant to the specific population under investigation, it is essential that future research examines the same variables in different contexts to assess their applicability in diverse settings. Another aspect to consider is the temporal variability of the data. Collecting data in a specific time period may mean that the results reflect unique conditions and contexts, and external events, such as economic crises or social changes, may influence participants’ perceptions and behaviors. Therefore, similar studies conducted over different time periods could make a valuable contribution to understanding the evolution of these variables over time.

Another important factor is the participants’ level of attention when completing the questionnaires. Variability in participants’ mood or level of concentration may influence the answers given. Future research could therefore benefit from data collection methods that minimize the influence of these issues, such as semi-structured interviews or direct observation. In conclusion, although our study provides valuable insights, recognizing these limitations is essential for an accurate interpretation of the results. Addressing these issues in future research could contribute to a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon under investigation.

9. Future Research Directions

Having identified the limitations of the study, we outline several promising directions for future research. First, broadening the study contexts is essential to test the generalizability of the results. Future research could analyze innovative sustainable entrepreneurship strategies in varied geographical, cultural, and economic contexts, thus providing a better understanding of the applicability of these strategies internationally.

Second, adopting a longitudinal perspective would make a significant contribution by investigating the temporal variability of the data. Studies conducted over extended periods of time could observe the evolution of perceptions and sustainable entrepreneurial strategies in relation to contextual, economic, or environmental changes.

Another valuable research direction is the development and validation of more complex measurement tools that capture the nuances of the variables under investigation. These tools should include more dimensions of sustainable entrepreneurship and assess in detail the environmental and societal impacts of innovative strategies. Diversification of research methods is also an important direction. The use of semi-structured interviews, case studies, or direct observations could minimize the influence of participants’ mood or focus variables, providing detailed qualitative data and a deep understanding of the phenomenon under investigation.

Finally, exploring the impact of major contextual changes such as economic crises or social changes could reveal how these events influence sustainable entrepreneurship as a measure to combat climate change. Comparative studies before and after such events could reveal their effects on entrepreneurial decisions and behavior. These research directions provide a framework for deepening the understanding of sustainable entrepreneurship and its impact on climate change mitigation, supporting the development of innovative and applicable strategies in diverse settings.