POSSIBILITIES AND LIMITATIONS OF THE ECO-INNOVATION IMPLEMENTATION IN SMALL ENTERPRISES

An analysis of the levels of innovation leads to the conclusion that, still, a big problem, especially for small businesses, is the cost of their implementation. This statement is reflected in the results of quantitative and qualitative research that was presented in the article. Poor financial situation of enterprises, especially small and medium-sized, fragmented financing projects in the field of environmental protection, unstable financial conditions, lack of marketing skills and the fear and reluctance to bear the risks associated with taking innovative projects are fundamental barriers to the introduction of eco-innovation. Among the institutional barriers the following are observed: substantive and systemic weaknesses in the effective use of aid funds, and insufficient knowledge about patents, copyright, etc. It should be emphasized that small companies, introducing new solutions, depend to a large extent on the attitude of the entrepreneur. It is the entrepreneur who bears the burden of creating ideas, stimulating the employees to be active and preparing the company to implement innovative solutions.

The analysis of the literature indicates that in order to overcome barriers to the implementation of eco-innovation, action should be taken primarily in terms of raising the awareness of the need for eco-innovation. Proper environmental management also requires new instruments and procedures to improve the introduction of the environmentally friendly solutions by entrepreneurs.

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