Eco-Social Work: Theoretical Foundations and Implications for Sustainable Inclusion

This paper explores the integration of Circular Economy principles with social work, focusing on the emerging field of Eco-Social Work. It examines the theoretical foundations and practical applications of Eco-Social Work, emphasizing its potential to address environmental and social challenges in an integrated and sustainable manner. Drawing on case studies and real-world examples, the paper illustrates how Eco-Social Work can be applied within social work organizations to promote sustainable practices and empower marginalized communities. The significance of this study lies in its exploration of a transformative approach to social work that bridges environmental sustainability and social equity. Specifically, the case study of Cascina Contina, a social enterprise based in Italy, highlighted in Sect. 3, showcases the practical implementation of Eco-Social Work principles, offering valuable insights into its impact on fostering inclusive development and addressing complex societal issues.