8.1 The Essence of Regenerative Business Practices Regenerative business practices transcend traditional sustainability by emphasising the restoration, renewal, and revitalisation of resources and communities. These practices are rooted in principles such as regenerative design, which perceives businesses as integral components of larger socioecological systems that require ongoing nurturing and support (Mang and Reed, 2012; Pathak, 2019). This approach prioritises the creation of positive impacts and the development of closed-loop systems that reintegrate resources back into the economy, thereby reducing waste and enhancing resource efficiency (Geissdoerfer et al., 2018). Concentrating on a single aspect of sustainable business without adopting a holistic approach can result in suboptimal outcomes. A comprehensive strategy that integrates various dimensions of sustainability is essential to achieve meaningful and lasting regenerative impacts. 8.2 Systemic Barriers to Regeneration Research has identified five primary systemic barriers that impede the adoption of regenerative practices in organisations (Coorens, 2024). Firstly, imagination limitations are significant obstacles. Traditional organisational structures are often rigid and hierarchical, which impedes the flexibility required to implement regenerative practices. These structures typically support established workflows and decision-making processes that do not prioritise long-term ecological and social health. This rigidity stifles creativity and innovation, making it difficult for organisations to envision and adopt new, regenerative ways of operating. Secondly, gaps in partner networks present another challenge. Effective regenerative practices often necessitate extensive collaboration across various stakeholders, including businesses, non-profits, government entities, and communities. However, many organisations lack sufficient alliances with other entities that share regenerative goals. This lack of collaboration can significantly hinder progress, as regenerative approaches often demand a broad spectrum of diverse practices. Thirdly, implementation and scaling impediments are common. Transitioning to regenerative practices is not only about initiating changes but also about scaling these changes effectively across the entire organisation. This can be a daunting task, especially when enablers to support widespread adoption are lacking. Organisations may struggle to move beyond pilot projects or isolated initiatives, failing to integrate regenerative practices into their core operations. Regenerative leadership creates a responsible future by restoring ecosystems and improving social systems, going beyond net zero to achieve a positive impact. 44 8.2 Systemic Barriers to Regeneration
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