Bord na Mona - A case study: The challenges of embedding an eco-entrepreneurial ethos

Abstract

This study is concerned with the emerging concept of ecological entrepreneurship, whereby a business is operated in an economically, environmentally and socially sustainable fashion. This research explores the relevance of this concept to Irish state-owned peat harvesting company Bord na Mona, with particular attention paid to its use of its cutaway bogs. International and European Union legislation which inform ecopreneurial activities are explored, and two models of best practice from Belarus and Canada for the after-use of post-industrially harvested peatlands are critically examined. This study explores current Irish cutaway bogland after-use and asks whether Bord na Mona's present use of its post-industrially harvested peatlands is sustainable from economic, environmental and social perspectives. In order to answer this research question, an appropriate methodology was devised using a qualitative case study approach, supplemented by a series of semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders. Conclusions are drawn and a number of recommendations are made. This research recommends inter alia that Bord na Mona work with national and international partners to develop sustainable sphagnum-based paludiculture regimes on its cutaway bogs. This research also recommends that Bord na Mona produces a business plan concerned with developing a carbon credit funded restoration and rehabilitation strategy for its cutaway bogs.