As the world grapples with the devastating effects of climate change and South Africa continues to face an acute unemployment crisis, eco-entrepreneurship is emerging as a critical force for building a sustainable future and ensuring a just and inclusive transition to a net-zero economy.

This was the message from entrepreneurs, industry experts, investors, policymakers and government agencies as they gathered at the Maslow Hotel in Pretoria on 16 and 17 March for the Indalo Inclusive Symposium. The two-day symposium, in partnership with Nedbank and The Government of Flanders, explored innovative solutions and global best practice to promote the growth of eco-entrepreneurship and advance sustainable business practices in South Africa. It highlighted the vital role of small, medium and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) in driving the country’s economic development and social and environmental progress.