Are Your Reports For Everyone?

Women are significantly underrepresented in climate change discussions worldwide despite their unique and profound experiences with its impact. A photograph doing the rounds shows the practically all-male leadership team at COP26 in Glasgow and perfectly illuminates the extent to which women, not to mention other minority groups, are being left out of the conversation.

Unfortunately, this underrepresentation continues two years after this photo and extends beyond climate change discussions to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability reporting strategies. Companies can make an immediate change to rectify this, and it starts close to home. They can ensure that CSR reporting and sustainability initiatives are more gender-inclusive, enabling women to participate more in shaping sustainable practices and outcomes.

Here are six concrete ways to ensure greater inclusion and amplify women's voices, both inside and outside your organisations, in your CSR reporting:

Representation in leadership

Promote gender diversity within your organisation by actively including women in leadership positions responsible for CSR reporting. This can be achieved through targeted recruitment efforts, mentoring and creating pathways for women to assume decision-making roles.

Boost women's training and capacity building

Provide training and capacity-building opportunities for women to enhance their skills and knowledge in CSR reporting and effectively participate in reporting processes. This can include workshops, mentorship programs and access to resources that empower women to contribute their expertise.

Transparent communication

Ensure transparency in CSR reporting by clearly communicating the steps taken to promote gender inclusion, representation, and empowerment within your organisation. Share success stories, challenges and future goals to demonstrate commitment and progress.

Supplier diversity

How diverse are your supply chains and partners? Can you prioritise greater gender diversity in your supply chain or procurement processes? Organisations can assess their suppliers and collaborate with businesses that support gender inclusivity and prioritise women-led enterprises.

Monitor progress and set targets

Implement monitoring mechanisms to track progress in gender inclusivity within your CSR reporting. Set targets, measure key performance indicators (KPIs), and regularly report on achievements and areas for improvement to ensure ongoing progress.

Amplify women's success stories

Companies like American Express share success stories showcasing women's contributions to CSR reporting or sustainability initiatives. By highlighting their achievements and impact, organisations will inspire others, foster inclusivity and encourage gender diversity across the company.