Empower women in entrepreneurship

The green economy presents a vital strategy for sustainable development, particularly in the face of challenges like climate change, environmental degradation, and resource depletion. A core component of this transition involves harnessing the potential of women, who are increasingly engaged in sectors like renewable energy, agriculture, and waste management. Their growing presence in these areas is crucial not only for environmental sustainability but also for fostering economic growth, social equity, and resilience. Women are already playing a pivotal role in renewable energy, where their participation is key to driving reductions in energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and water use. A study highlights that companies with more gender-diverse boards are more likely to adopt sustainability measures, with reductions in environmental footprints such as energy consumption and emissions. This underscores the importance of women in decision-making positions to create environmentally responsible practices. In renewable energy, women hold around 32% of jobs globally, and their leadership can further enhance the growth of green technologies and innovations. Women drive agriculture, one of the most environmentally impactful sectors. Women produce up to 80% of the food in such regions, despite facing significant barriers like limited access to land, credit, and technology. Programs such as the UN’s Gender and Climate Change initiative and the African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) empower women by providing training and resources for adopting climate-resilient agricultural practices. In countries like Pakistan, where women are key agricultural stakeholders, empowering women with the knowledge and tools to implement sustainable farming methods can significantly contribute to both food security and environmental sustainability. Women also play a central role in waste management and often manage household waste. Women’s participation in the circular economy, focused on reducing, reusing, and recycling, can lead to substantial reductions in waste and environmental impact. Projects like those led by women in the informal recycling sector, supported by organizations such as the Global Alliance for Recycling and Sustainable Development (GARSD), demonstrate how women-led initiatives can drive effective waste management while creating economic opportunities. The inclusion of women in the green economy offers both environmental and economic benefits. According to a McKinsey report, advancing gender equality could add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025. Furthermore, women-led organizations in the green economy often reinvest profits into community development, healthcare, and education, creating broader social benefits. The International Labor Organization (ILO) estimates that the green economy could generate up to 24 million jobs by 2030, with a focus on gender-inclusive employment practices accelerating job growth. Women’s involvement in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and environmental technology not only creates jobs but also accelerates the adoption of green policies and practices. Increasingly, nations and global organizations recognize the importance of gender inclusivity in climate policies. Initiatives such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s Gender and Climate Change Action Plan work to ensure women’s contributions get acknowledgement and integration into global climate dialogues. By supporting women’s leadership in sustainable energy sectors, countries like Pakistan can build a more equitable and climate-resilient future. Women’s representation in environmental decision-making positions will be crucial in shaping policies that prioritize long-term sustainability, while also ensuring that the benefits of the green economy reach all sectors of society. The green economy provides a unique opportunity to tackle environmental challenges while promoting gender equality and economic growth. Women’s participation in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and waste management not only advances climate action but also fosters broader societal benefits. By empowering women in leadership and entrepreneurship, nations can unlock the full potential of the green economy, creating a sustainable, inclusive future for all. For countries like Pakistan, supporting women’s roles in these sectors is crucial to achieving a green, equitable, and resilient economy.