International Women's Day: Gender Equality and Sustainability on Campus

International Women’s Day takes place each year on March 8 and recognizes the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It is also a time to reflect on the progress still needed to achieve gender equality. Around the world, organizations, universities, and businesses use this day to highlight the importance of inclusive leadership and equal opportunity.

This conversation connects directly to Sustainable Development Goal 5. SDG 5 focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls. The goal recognizes that gender inequality remains a barrier to sustainable development and calls for action across education, leadership, economic participation, and health.

One issue closely connected to gender equality is menstrual equity. Menstrual products are essential, yet they are not always accessible or affordable for everyone. When students face barriers to accessing these products, it can affect their participation in school, work, and everyday life.

Menstrual equity also has an environmental dimension. Many disposable menstrual products contain plastic and are designed for single use. Over time, these products create significant landfill waste.

Reusable alternatives offer a more sustainable option. The DivaCup is one example of a reusable menstrual cup designed to last for several years with proper care, helping reduce the number of disposable products needed while lowering long-term costs. Sustainability in Business is proud to partner with Diva, a company committed to advancing menstrual equity and reducing the environmental impact of menstrual care. Through innovative reusable products and ongoing advocacy, Diva works to make sustainable menstrual care more accessible while helping break down the stigma surrounding menstruation.

Student organizations also play an important role in advancing these conversations. At Wilfrid Laurier University, Sustainability in Business supports SDG 5 by creating opportunities for students to learn from leaders working at the intersection of business and sustainability.

SIB regularly brings in accomplished women leaders to share their experiences and insights with students. Recent speakers include Emma Rogers, Senior Director of Climate Strategy at RBC; Jasmine Wong from JLL; Emily Vancise from VCT Group; Rebecca Francolini from Manulife; and Natalie Bazouzi from Sun Life. By highlighting the voices of women across finance, consulting, and sustainability-focused organizations, these conversations help students understand the diverse career paths available in the field.

SIB also highlights women leaders within its own community. Maia Flinton, the club’s president, previously launched Thrifted Threads, a project funded by Laurier’s Sustainable Hawk Fund. The initiative promotes circular fashion by redistributing pre-owned Laurier merchandise while raising awareness about clothing waste.

Through events, partnerships, and student initiatives, SIB continues to promote conversations around gender equality and sustainable leadership. International Women’s Day reminds us that building a more sustainable future requires diverse voices, inclusive opportunities, and solutions that work for everyone.