Women constitute 49.58% of the world’s total population. As per the United Nations Population Division's World Population Prospects 2019 Revision, the population of females in the world stood at 3.905 billion in 2020.

With such a clear picture of the sex ratio of the world population, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that without the inclusion of almost half of the world's population, it is impossible to accomplish solutions for a better world. Women's contribution is essential for building a sustainable tomorrow.    

Interesting read: How is China progressing towards its sustainable development goals?

How can we better utilise women’s strength for a sustainable tomorrow?

Sustainable development refers to an approach towards development that is able to fulfil needs of the present generation without endangering the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Therefore, for sustainable development, there is a need to consider requirements and expectations of both men and women equally. A sustainable tomorrow cannot be achieved without gender equality.

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Gender equality is a key factor for achieving sustainable growth, be it economic, social or environmental. We can build a sustainable path of development by ensuring that women’s and men’s interests are both taken into account in the allocation of resources. There has to be a balance in providing opportunities to men and women, including decision-making ones for all kinds of activities.

Also read: UN women’s report on SDGs through lens of gender equality

Achieving twin goals with an enabling environment for women

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Women are a key player in bringing the idea of sustainable development to life. To set the first foot forward in the direction for a sustainable tomorrow, we need to empower women by orchestrating an enabling and supportive environment for their growth. This includes eliminating obstacles and barriers to equal participation and rewards for women.

There must be an enabling environment created at all levels, from relevant legal reforms and policy measures at the government and municipality levels to initiatives and support by the private sector, civil society, family and friends.

Also, there is a need to recognise the significance of a gender-sensitive education that can overpower gender stereotypes and encourage more equitable relations between women and men. For greater results and a faster outcome, training programs must be organised to help women realise their potential and grow in the field they hold interest in. This will catalyse their involvement in a greater number of processes across industries and eventually make them financially self-reliant.

This will lead to sustainable development with a more equitable distribution of resources today and tomorrow across the globe.

Do read: 3 ASX Companies Making Strides in Bridging Gender Gap