As we transition from February into March, Women’s History Month – punctuated by the vital International Women’s Day, it becomes increasingly important to spotlight and tackle the unique challenges faced by women in the waste industry, particularly those situated in regional areas.
The waste industry, pivotal to our environmental sustainability efforts, has seen a significant disparity in opportunities available to women based in metropolitan areas compared to their regional counterparts. This divide not only underscores the geographical challenges inherent within Australia but also highlights the need for targeted support and inclusivity.
At Resource Hub, we have an extensive client base sprawled across the regional expanse of Australia and our work in these areas has highlighted this disparity. The recognition came sharply into focus when observing the participation in industry events, which are predominantly held in capital cities. This geographical challenge restricts the ability of industry professionals from regional areas to engage fully with the broader community, share insights, and access the same opportunities for growth and learning.
In response to this challenge, and in alignment with the spirit of International Women’s Day, Resource Hub has initiated a conversation with partners at WMRR to address this gap head-on. The collaboration aims to fund the attendance of women from various regions across the states to the WMRR (Waste Management and Resource Recovery Association) Women of Waste events. This initiative not only symbolises a step towards bridging the geographical divide but also a commitment to fostering inclusivity and support for women in the waste industry.
The necessity of such initiatives cannot be overstated. By facilitating the participation of regional women in these events, we not only enrich the discourse around waste management and sustainability but also ensure a more diverse representation and sharing of stories, strategies, and solutions. The stories shared and connections made at these events, are instrumental in driving the industry forward, promoting innovation, and building a supportive community that spans the breadth of the country.
This Women’s History Month, let us all commit to supporting the endeavours of women in the waste industry, recognising the unique challenges faced by those in regional areas, and taking active steps to ensure no one is left behind. The journey towards equality and inclusivity is long, but through collective efforts, initiatives like these mark significant strides in the right direction.
If you are looking for an upcoming Women in Waste event, check out the WMRR website here.
If you want to be updated on when our partnership officially launches, don’t forget to join our email list!