#WorldNatureConservationDay #WomenEntrepreneurs #Sustainability #GreenBusiness #ConservationHeroes
World Nature Conservation Day, celebrated every year on July 28 2024, actually raises awareness about the importance of protecting our planet’s natural resources and biodiversity. This year’s theme, “Connecting People and Plants: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation,” underscores the need for innovative approaches to environmental stewardship.
World Nature Conservation Day serves as a crucial platform to:
> Raise awareness about the importance of protecting nature and biodiversity.
> Encourage individuals and communities to adopt sustainable practices.
> Advocate for policy changes and international cooperation for environmental protection.
> Celebrate achievements and success stories in nature conservation.
Women and Environmental Conservation
Environmental conservation is very critical today, as environmental degradation is exceedingly damaging to humans, animals & plants. Women worldwide oversee the management of forests, agricultural land, and the provision of water, food, and fuel. Their contribution to biodiversity preservation is significant, yet often undervalued.
Women have a unique relationship with nature, characterized by pro-environmental attitudes and beliefs, which influence how they approach environmental challenges. Women’s roles in environmental conservation are pivotal for sustainable development. The Millennium Development Goals include – environmental sustainability and gender equality, highlighting the importance of women’s contributions to achieving a sustainable future. Their traditional knowledge, experience & perspectives are vital for making sustainable development policy decisions to maintain a healthy planet for future generations.
Women Entrepreneurs: Pioneers of Sustainability
Women entrepreneurs are at the forefront of driving sustainable change. Their ventures often emphasize eco-friendly agriculture practices, renewable energy initiatives, and social enterprises, contributing to environmental conservation, resource optimization,
and community resilience. A study conducted by Goldman Sachs in 2020 revealed that European funds managed by female or mixed-gender teams outperformed those led exclusively by men, – highlighting the impact of women’s initiatives on sustainable investment.
Studies have shown that women entrepreneurs tend to be more oriented toward sustainability than their male counterparts. Research indicates that women exhibit a greater inclination towards social or environmental entrepreneurship, while men often prefer economic entrepreneurship. This intrinsic motivation to drive positive change positions women as key players in shaping a more sustainable future.
So, what’s the road ahead?
The scope is promising for women entrepreneurs to make further strides in sustainability. Whether through harnessing digital tools, securing investment, collaborating, receiving training, innovating, balancing responsibilities, promoting inclusivity, or pursuing social entrepreneurship goals, women entrepreneurs are poised to lead the way. With relevant ecosystem support, policy frameworks, and a shift in societal mindsets, women’s entrepreneurship can unlock abundance, diversity, and empowerment for current and future generations.
Celebrating Achievements
World Nature Conservation Day is a celebration of the achievements & success stories in nature conservation. It serves as a critical reminder of our responsibility towards protecting nature and building a sustainable future. We can indeed, contribute to a healthier planet and a brighter future for all; and every action, however small, makes a difference!!
On this World Nature Conservation Day, let us recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of women entrepreneurs in the quest for a sustainable and greener world.
Avtar Madan
Himanshu
Shree Lahiri
