Women drive sustainability efforts in climate-positive initiatives

In a roundtable discussion held at SXSW London, 11 influential women across various industries converged to address climate change and explore new approaches to sustainability. Central to the discussion was the need to leapfrog outdated practices and embrace transformative changes rather than merely redesigning existing systems. They emphasized that market forces are increasingly responding to the climate crisis, driven by the preferences of younger generations who prioritize sustainability in their choices, with 38% of the workforce being Gen Z and Millennials, who seek jobs at environmentally conscious companies. During this conversation, it became clear that women, who hold significant purchasing power, play a crucial role in driving demand for sustainable practices. A notable quote from political strategist Antonio Gramsci highlighted the current tensions between the dying old norms and the emergence of new paradigms, suggesting that societal change is imperative for progress. The discussion also addressed the difference in perspectives among rural communities regarding climate change and pointed to a need for new methods that adapt to contemporary societal structures. This sentiment aligns with broader developments in women's sports, as evidenced by the ongoing planning for Women's Euro 2025, which aims to integrate sustainable practices into sports events, contrasting with historical neglect of environmental considerations in men's tournaments. As women’s sports gain visibility and support, the potential exists for these events to challenge traditional models and set a precedent for sustainability in elite athletics, navigating both climate risk and commercial opportunity while leveraging women’s involvement in decision making.