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

This chapter examines the dual side of charities in the United Kingdom. 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 with job opportunities and second-hand retail stores that reduce carbon footprint. We argue that this sustainability focused performance creates negative outcomes for people, profits, and the planet. This chapter examines how different social actors push charities into the “unwanted” territory that further promotes overconsumption and unsustainable waste management. This chapter calls for transformation in the charity economy with suggestions for more green and social innovation to further assist in recycling the unwanted goods more responsibly. It explains how all stakeholders can shift charities from the “unwanted” space to the sustainably “responsible” through a sustainable business model.