Key Impact Points:
- Women over 50 have been pivotal in leading climate action, demonstrating resilience, expertise, and passion honed over decades.
- The newly launched network, Women Leading On Climate, highlights that women are 2.5 times more likely to push governments for action and 60% more likely to amplify their voices for climate advocacy.
- Influential figures like Anita Roddick, Jane Goodall, and Mary Robinson exemplify the lifetime commitment of women leading the charge on climate solutions.
Women’s Pioneering Leadership in Climate Action
As women have been the backbone of community leadership and sustainability, their impact only strengthens with age. The vibrant legacy of women like Anita Roddick, who inspired through her founding of The Body Shop, extends to countless leaders across generations. These icons have continued to shape climate action with fervor and innovation, even as they pass the milestone of 50 years.
The Launch of Women Leading On Climate
This year at COP29, a significant milestone was the launch of Women Leading On Climate, a network that underscores the dedication of older women who have paved the way for impactful climate solutions. This group supports the finding that women are “2.5 times more likely to demand government action” and “60% more likely to use their voice for good,” showcasing their integral role in climate advocacy.
Profiles of Resilience and Leadership
Why These Leaders? Among the many women over 50 contributing to climate action, Mary Robinson, Dr. Jane Lubchenco, and Isabella Teixeira stand out for their diverse and powerful approaches. Highlighting their contributions offers insight into the multifaceted strategies needed for effective climate action—spanning political advocacy, scientific research, and policy implementation.
Mary Robinson: The former President of Ireland and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has used her extensive background in human rights to champion climate justice. By focusing on intergenerational equity, Robinson has brought attention to the ethical dimensions of climate policies, advocating for fairness and justice for future generations.
Dr. Jane Lubchenco: As a marine ecologist and former U.S. Science Envoy, Lubchenco represents the intersection of scientific research and policy. Her work underscores the critical role of ocean conservation in addressing climate change. By leveraging her expertise in academia and government, she has pushed for greater recognition of marine ecosystems’ importance in climate solutions.
Isabella Teixeira: During her tenure as Brazil’s Minister of Environment, Teixeira played a pivotal role in efforts to reduce deforestation in the Amazon, a key global carbon sink. Her leadership not only impacted Brazil’s environmental policies but also influenced global strategies on deforestation and conservation, emphasizing practical and regionally tailored approaches.
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“They’re Nowhere Near Finished”
Older female leaders continue to innovate and lead by example. Sharon Lavigne of Louisiana, an environmental justice advocate, demonstrates relentless dedication by opposing harmful petrochemical projects and advocating for healthier communities. Similarly, Gina McCarthy, former White House National Climate Advisor, embodies the commitment needed for systemic change, having overseen groundbreaking climate policies in the U.S.
A Call to Listen and Learn
The wisdom and experience of these women should not be underestimated. As the article urges, “Invite them to speak, ask their opinion, hire them, work for them, interview them for articles, listen to their wisdom and be prepared for them to challenge you.” Their decades-long commitment is an asset to ongoing climate efforts and a testament to the sustained power of women’s leadership.
Conclusion
Women over 50 have not only led in laying the groundwork for today’s climate solutions but continue to drive the movement forward. Their insights, resilience, and dedication highlight that impactful leadership only grows stronger with time.
Related Article: Marie-Claire Graf: Shaping the Future of Climate Diplomacy
