The dual side of charities: the “responsible” and the “unwanted” space of doing good

This conceptual paper examines the dual side of non-profit organisations, with a specific focus on charities in the UK economy. It unravels their duality through the triple bottom line framework and collaborative consumption theory, showing their economic, social, and environmental impact. Perceived as “social heroes”, charities generate social profit by supporting the most vulnerable in local communities, contribute to the local economy through their job creation opportunities, as well as their active engagement in second-hand retail stores that help to reduce carbon footprint. However, recent research has shown we argue that this sustainability focused performance creates negative outcomes for people, profits, and the planet. In this chapter, we look at how different social actors push charities into the “unwanted” territory that further promotes overconsumption and hinders sustainable waste management. This chapter calls for transformation in the charity economy with suggestions to embrace more green and social innovation to further assist in recycling the unwanted goods more responsibly individually and collectively. Referring to the sustainable business model innovation concept, it explains how all stakeholders can shift charities from the “unwanted” space to the sustainably “responsible” space and suggests a more sustainable business model for charities to meet the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.