Driving a greener future: the role of gender equality in sustainability
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As we look towards a more sustainable future, one key factor often overlooked is gender equality. At the recent North East Chamber of Commerce event for International Women’s Day 2025, in collaboration with iCOR, discussions highlighted how diverse leadership and inclusive practices can accelerate sustainability efforts, particularly within the green sectors.
The Link Between Gender Equality and Sustainability
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) clearly establish the connection between gender equality and broader sustainability efforts. SDG 5 (Gender Equality) is not just a standalone goal; it is an essential enabler for achieving economic growth, environmental protection, and social progress. Research suggests that addressing gender disparities in leadership, economic participation, and education significantly boosts sustainability outcomes.
Women play a vital role in environmental management, particularly in resource conservation, climate adaptation, and disaster resilience. The Rio Declaration (1992) emphasised that women’s full participation is crucial for sustainable development. However, current data suggests that it could take 140 years for women to achieve equal representation in workplace leadership—a gap that must be addressed if we are to build a greener, more inclusive economy.
Integrating Equality into Sustainable Business Practices
Businesses have a significant opportunity to embed both gender equality and sustainability into their operations. This can be achieved through:
- Strategic Policies: Embedding gender equality in sustainability frameworks and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategies.
- Leadership Representation: Encouraging women’s participation in decision-making roles across green industries.
- Inclusive Workplace Practices: Ensuring equitable hiring, fair wages, and supportive environments for career growth.
- Community Engagement: Partnering with organisations that promote gender inclusivity and environmental responsibility.
According to a McKinsey study, if gender inequality were eliminated, the world’s GDP could be $28 trillion higher by 2025. The economic case for inclusion is undeniable—businesses that embrace diversity tend to outperform their competitors in innovation, productivity, and sustainability impact.
A Call to Action for the North East’s Green Economy
The North East of England has a unique opportunity to lead by example in the green sector. By fostering diverse leadership, supporting women-led sustainability initiatives, and integrating gender equality into business strategies, the region can drive long-term environmental and economic success.