At BONEX, we are deeply committed to addressing gender equality as a central pillar of our work. As part of our ongoing efforts, we aim to highlight the importance of women’s participation in sustainability and WEFE Nexus (Water, Energy, Food, Ecosystem) projects. Women’s active engagement in these sectors is not only crucial for their success, but also vital for achieving a more sustainable and equitable world.

Gender at the Core of BONEX-SureNexus Conference

One of the standout moments in our gender-focused work came during the BONEX-SureNexus Conference, where we hosted an impactful session dedicated to Gender and the WEFE Nexus. This session served as a platform to showcase how integrating gender equality into sustainability projects can drive success, sustainability, and resilience in critical sectors.

At the conference, we provided a unique opportunity to learn from successful initiatives such as PRIMA and the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM). These organizations have demonstrated a strong commitment to integrating gender considerations into their programs, paving the way for groundbreaking initiatives. We also heard inspiring success stories from practitioners, offering invaluable insights into the practical benefits of gender equality in resource management.

Gender Equality: A Vital Missing Dimension

Despite these powerful contributions, it is essential to note that gender equality is still often overlooked in other crucial areas. The majority of presentations from the conference’s other two pillars—governance and innovation—lacked a gender perspective. This disparity was also reflected in the abstracts submitted to the conference, as just one out of 51 was related to the Gender and WEFE Nexus pillar. This further reinforces the urgency of pushing gender as a core aspect of sustainability initiatives.

At BONEX, we are committed to driving change. By continuing to push for gender equality in the WEFE Nexus, we aim to challenge the status quo and promote a paradigm shift. Women are key to the transition toward a more sustainable and resilient future. Their involvement in decision-making and innovation is crucial for addressing pressing global challenges.

Empowering Women: The Path to a More Sustainable Future

The importance of empowering women in managing the WEFE Nexus cannot be overstated. Women bring unique perspectives to water management, renewable energy, agriculture, and climate adaptation—sectors that are at the heart of the WEFE Nexus.

Women are not just participants in this transition—they are innovators, problem-solvers, caretakers, leaders, and managers. When we invest in women, we are investing in solutions that lead to a more sustainable and resilient world.

Key Examples of Gender-Responsive Initiatives:

• PRIMA Programme: The new PRIMA programme will require a Gender Strategy Plan, ensuring that gender-sensitive innovations are at the forefront of their initiatives. This commitment goes beyond “gender washing”—it demands robust strategies that incorporate gender dimensions meaningfully into their work.
• Union for Mediterranean (UfM): The Gender, Environment, and Climate Change Community of Practice (CoP) launched by UfM addresses the intersection of gender inequality and climate change. Women, especially entrepreneurs, are disproportionately affected by climate change, and the CoP fosters collaboration and knowledge-sharing to empower them.

These initiatives provide a strong foundation for advancing gender equality and underscore the growing recognition of women as central actors in sustainable development.

Inspiring Women Leading the Change

At the conference, we were privileged to hear from inspiring women leaders who are at the forefront of driving change in WEFE Nexus projects. Asmae Diani from CATWAR shared valuable perspectives on the gender dimensions of WEFE Nexus projects, while the Roundtable on Inspiring Experiences brought together incredible women from Portugal, Marta Cortegano (Associação Terra Sintrópica), Jordan, Serena Sandri (GJU), and Tunisia,  Olfa Mahjoub (INRGREF), who shared their successful experiences in integrating gender into their work.

It was highlighted by Marta the importance of doing the right things, not just doing things right. This means implementing transformative policies and inclusive strategies that fully harness the potential of women in the WEFE Nexus.

Key Takeaways and Recommendations

In line with the powerful interventions we heard at the conference, the following recommendations emerged:

1. Equal Access to Education and STEM Opportunities: Women remain underrepresented in STEM fields. Encouraging girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics is crucial for closing the gender gap in research and innovation.
2. Land and Resource Rights for Women: Legal frameworks must ensure women have equal access to land, water, and financial resources, enabling them to actively contribute to sustainable agriculture and conservation.
3. Investment in Gender-Inclusive Technologies: Women-led innovation, especially in clean energy, water management, and climate adaptation, should receive greater funding and support.
4. Representation in Decision-Making: Women’s voices must be included in policy-making—from local water councils to international climate negotiations.
5. Community-Based Approaches: Strengthening women’s cooperatives and knowledge-sharing networks can foster sustainable practices and resilience.

The Transformative Role of Women in Sustainability

Integrating gender equality in WEFE Nexus projects is not optional; it is essential for achieving sustainable development. Women play a central role in managing resources, especially at the household and rural levels. Their perspectives enhance the efficiency of resource management, reduce waste, and generate positive environmental impacts.

Moreover, the promotion of gender equality in policymaking and business strengthens communities and enhances resilience. At BONEX, we believe that the inclusion of women in the WEFE Nexus approach is vital for building sustainable systems that are just, inclusive, and resilient.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the progress made and the work still to be done, BONEX remains committed to pushing the boundaries of gender equality in sustainability and resource management. Women’s contributions to the WEFE Nexus are not just valuable—they are transformative.

On this International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering women and ensuring their role as leaders in the transition to a sustainable future. We must “do the right things”—and that means implementing policies and strategies that empower women and recognize their pivotal role in achieving a sustainable, resilient world.

Women are the Nexus.