Have you ever wondered who owns nature? This question is at the heart of a growing global concern called biopiracy . Simply put, biopiracy happens when big companies from wealthy countries take plants, animals, or traditional knowledge from indigenous communities without permission or fair payment. It's like someone taking your family recipe, patenting it, and selling it worldwide without giving you credit or compensation. This practice raises important questions about fairness, justice, and the ownership of nature itself. Researchers in Canada have looked into using red sage, widely used in traditional Chinese medicine, to help prevent bone loss | Image: Hendrik Schmidt/dpa/picture alliance What is biopiracy? Biopiracy occurs when companies or research institutions patent biological resources or traditional knowledge from indigenous communities have been using for generations, without proper permission or compensation. [1] It is a practice that involves a company from a developed country registering patents on products derived from the biodiversity of a developing country without sharing the benefits with local populations. The term emerged in the 1990s, coined by environmental activist Vandana Shiva to highlight what she viewed as a new form of colonialism. Pr Vandana Shiva The organization Public Eye describes it as biopiracy more specifically as the appropriation and monopolization of traditional knowledge and genetic resources by means of patents, without recognizing the contributions of indigenous and local communities to these resources and knowledge, and without sharing the benefits arising from their use.[4] The stakes are high. The global market for natural products reached approximately $1.06 trillion in 2021, with medicinal plants alone accounting for more than $800 billion. With this much money at stake, companies are racing to claim exclusive rights to natural resources and the knowledge about how to use them. Real-world examples anyone can understand. Biopiracy isn't new. Throughout history, valuable plants and knowledge about their uses have been transferred from indigenous communities to global markets without recognition or compensation. Here are some examples that show how biopiracy works: The history of quinine The history of quinine, derived from the bark of the cinchona tree and used to treat malaria, represents an early example. Indigenous Andean peoples knew of its properties long before European colonizers claimed the discovery as their own. Ecorce de quinine Hunger-Suppressing Cactus: The San people in southern Africa traditionally chewed a type of cactus called Hoodia to avoid feeling hungry during long hunting trips. In 1996, a South African research organization patented the appetite-suppressing ingredient without asking the San people's permission. They later sold the rights to pharmaceutical companies hoping to create weight-loss products. Hoodia Neem Tree For centuries, people in India have used neem tree extracts for medicine, pest control, and personal hygiene. A U.S. company patented these properties even though Indian communities had been using them for hundreds of years. Neem Tree 20 Seeds, Azadirachta indica Tree Seeds Yellow Mexican Bean Mexican farmers developed and grew a specific yellow bean variety for generations. A U.S. businessman visited Mexico, took some beans home, and then patented this variety in the United States, claiming it as his "invention." Yellow Mexican beans Basmati Rice Companies have tried to patent varieties of basmati rice that Indian and Pakistani farmers developed through centuries of careful selection and cultivation. In each case, something that belonged to a community became someone else's "property" through legal paperwork, without recognition or compensation for the original knowledge holders. Basmati rice Why biopiracy matters for sustainability. Environmental sustainability Biopiracy directly threatens environmental sustainability in several ways: When companies patent natural resources, they often encourage intensive harvesting or farming of single species, which can damage ecosystems that depend on diversity. Indigenous communities typically manage their resources sustainably, harvesting only what they need while preserving the ecosystem. When outside companies take control of these resources, sustainable practices may be abandoned in favor of maximizing profits. Biopiracy can accelerate biodiversity loss when resources are overexploited to meet market demands.[2] Indigenous communities often protect biodiversity because their cultural practices and knowledge systems depend on diverse ecosystems. Disrupting these communities through biopiracy threatens the very biodiversity that makes these resources valuable in the first place. Social Sustainability The social impacts of biopiracy are profound: Indigenous communities can lose access to resources they've managed for generations when these resources become privatized through patents. Traditional knowledge is often central to cultural identity. When this knowledge is taken without permission, it threatens cultural survival. The power imbalance between large corporations and indigenous communities creates situations where communities can't effectively defend their rights. The appropriation of resources and knowledge from the South by Northern countries damages social cohesion and cultural practices that have evolved over centuries.[3][ Economic Sustainability Biopiracy creates economic inequities that undermine sustainable development: While companies may earn billions from products derived from traditional knowledge, the communities that developed and preserved this knowledge often remain in poverty. Indigenous communities are denied economic opportunities when they can't benefit from their own resources and knowledge. The lopsided distribution of benefits discourages communities from sharing knowledge that could benefit humanity, for fear it will be stolen. Patents on genetic resources and traditional knowledge are predominantly held by industrialized countries in the global North, while the majority of biological resources and indigenous knowledge is found in the biodiversity-rich countries of the global South.This economic imbalance perpetuates global inequality.[4] Rules meant to stop biopiracy (And why they often don't work) Several international agreements try to address biopiracy. The most important ones are the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the 2010 Nagoya Protocol. These agreements say companies need to: Ask permission before accessing genetic resources and traditional knowledge Share benefits fairly with the communities that provide these resources. However, these rules often don't work well because: Many countries don't have strong local laws to enforce these international agreements Patent systems were designed for individual inventors and don't easily recognize community-owned knowledge Traditional knowledge is often shared orally rather than written down, making it hard to protect under current intellectual property laws Powerful economic interests resist changes that would limit their ability to profit from biological resources. Switzerland's role in biopiracy Switzerland plays an important part in this story. The country is home to many pharmaceutical, agricultural, and biotechnology companies that file patents based on genetic resources.[4] Switzerland has taken some steps to address the problem. In 2008, it required patent applicants to disclose where they got genetic resources and traditional knowledge. However, critics say these measures don't go far enough because: There are few consequences if companies don't comply The rules don't apply when Swiss companies file patents in other countries Nevertheless, Switzerland has a responsibility to ensure that its companies respect the rights of indigenous and local communities when accessing and using their resources and knowledge. Public Eye [4] Digital biopiracy: A new challenge Technology is creating new forms of biopiracy. With advances in genetic sequencing, companies can now access genetic information without physically taking plant or animal samples. They can: Digitize genetic sequences and store them in databases Use this digital information to create new products Potentially avoid sharing benefits with the communities where the original resources came from When genetic information is digitized and stored in databases, it becomes easier to appropriate and harder to trace, potentially bypassing benefit-sharing obligations. Hence, this "digital biopiracy" is harder to track and regulate than traditional forms of biopiracy, creating new challenges for communities trying to protect their resources. How we can fix the problem Addressing biopiracy requires action on multiple fronts: Better laws : Countries need strong laws that protect traditional knowledge and genetic resources, with real consequences for violations. Improved patent systems : Patent offices should require proof that companies have permission to use biological resources and are sharing benefits fairly. Supporting indigenous communities : Communities need legal help and technical support to negotiate fair agreements and protect their rights. Ethical partnerships : Companies should work with indigenous communities as equal partners, respecting their rights and sharing profits fairly. New rules for digital information : We need updated frameworks to ensure benefit-sharing applies to digital genetic information, not just physical samples. Company accountability : Companies should face meaningful consequences for biopiracy violations. Consumer awareness : When people understand biopiracy, they can demand more ethical practices from the companies they buy from. Toward a more sustainable and fair future Biopiracy isn't just about taking without permission, it's about respecting cultural heritage, recognizing indigenous contributions to our knowledge, and sharing the benefits of nature fairly. As the OpenEdition book reminds us,[3] "biodiversity cannot be reduced to genetic resources that can be freely taken." Instead, we need to understand nature as part of complex systems where people and environments are connected, managed by communities with deep cultural ties to the land. By addressing biopiracy, we can build more sustainable relationships between global industries and local communities, relationships that respect traditional knowledge, reward innovation fairly, and ensure that the benefits of biodiversity are shared by all who help preserve it. True sustainability (environmental, social, and economic) requires justice in how we value, protect, and share the world's biological resources and the knowledge systems that have evolved alongside them. Only by addressing biopiracy can we create a future where nature's gifts benefit everyone, not just those with the power to claim ownership. References: [1] "Biopiracy: The fight for fairness in the scientific exploitation of natural resources." France24, December 9, 2022. [2] "Digital biopiracy: Tracking the new frontier of the North-South divide in genetic resources extraction." Science Direct, 2022. [3] "Biodiversity, Biotechnology and Traditional Knowledge Protection." OpenEdition Books. [4] "Biopiracy: Context and Switzerland's Role." Public Eye.

Lately, we have been often asked: "What is becoming of sustainable business?". "Is there any?" "Are environmental and social sustainability able to thrive on this political climate?". Here is our answer: Spotlight When profit meets purpose, that's where true business transformation begins. Across our client portfolio, we've observed how sustainability, inclusion, and equity were once the darlings of corporate agendas. Those days feel distant now. The boardroom enthusiasm has cooled. The budgets have shrunk. The bold declarations have softened to whispers. Not because these principles matter less. But because the real work has begun. Across the industry,  we've observed how initiatives built merely for show are being quietly shelved as priorities shift. Meanwhile, among our clients who embraced sustainability with authentic purpose, their programs continue to thrive even without fanfare, and they're seeing tangible benefits to their bottom line. The data supports this observation. A 2023 McKinsey Global Survey found that 33% of respondents report their organizations have already achieved value creation from their sustainability programs [1], while according to the Morgan Stanley Institute for Sustainable Investing, sustainable funds demonstrated greater resilience during market downturns, with 65% of sustainable funds ranking in the top half of their respective categories during 2020's volatile market. [2,3,4] The contrast couldn't be more striking: performative sustainability fades with changing seasons, but a real purpose-driven approaches are bearing fruit even when no one's watching. [5,6] Our most successful clients understand this: when your sustainability strategy only thrived during conference keynotes and quarterly reports, it was never going to reshape your business. Real commitment isn't measured in press releases but in what your company does when no one's drafting the awards submission, when public attention has moved elsewhere. That resistance many businesses are feeling is not failure, it's friction. Systems only push back against forces capable of changing them. The harder the pushback, the closer you are to meaningful change. Research from MIT Sloan indicates that the companies facing the most significant initial internal resistance to sustainability initiatives ultimately achieved 37% higher ROI on those programs when they persisted through the friction. For some organizations we work with, sustainability feels like sacrifice because they've built enterprises on unsustainable foundations. Their discomfort isn't evidence we've gone too far, it's confirmation we've finally started moving in the right direction.  According to a 2022 PwC survey, 83% of consumers think companies should be actively shaping ESG best practices, yet The Conference Board's C-Suite Outlook 2023 reported that only 39% of executives globally ranked ESG investments as "very important", highlighting the friction between expectations and current priorities. The most dangerous narrative we hear from companies isn't skepticism about sustainability, it's the suggestion that modest progress represents radical excess. When business claims "we've gone too far," we always ask them: too far toward whose future? NYU Stern's Center for Sustainable Business found that sustainability-marketed products grew 7.1 times faster than products not marketed as sustainable between 2015-2021, showing consumers are voting with their wallets. At Trianon Scientific Communication, we've learned through our client work that sustainability isn't just a solution, it's often THE solution, even to problems that seem unrelated. We're committed to proving that environmental and social responsibility can drive profit, not just purpose. We didn't build our client relationships on shifting trends. We built them on enduring truths. For some organizations, sustainability feels challenging because they've operated for decades on unsustainable foundations. Their discomfort doesn't signal excess, it confirms that meaningful change has begun. The 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer found that 71% of employees expect their CEO to speak out on issues like sustainability and climate change, expectations that may feel uncomfortable but reflect evolving stakeholder demands. If you're exhausted, we tell our clients, good. That means you've moved beyond platitudes. If you're uncertain, excellent. You understand what's truly at stake. If you're still committed despite the headwinds, perfect. That's where transformation begins. Th resilience of sustainable business What's become clear through observation is that sustainability isn't just about risk mitigation, it always drives solution innovation. Harvard Business Review reported that companies with strong ESG propositions have lower costs of capital, reduced regulatory pressure, and improved employee attraction and retention, translating to enhanced value creation. [7] The companies building on enduring principles rather than fleeting trends show remarkable resilience. Those experiencing exhaustion have typically moved beyond performative actions. Those facing uncertainty have generally recognized the true complexity of the challenge. Those maintaining commitment despite headwinds are positioned for long-term transformation. Sustainability isn't fading, it's maturing. Growing less flashy but more fundamental. Less about talk and more about transformation. We see this daily as we guide organizations through this evolution. The evidence appears in quarterly reports and annual statements across industries, with the Global Sustainable Investment Alliance reporting that sustainable investing assets reached $35.3 trillion globally in 2020, a 15% increase in just two years. [8] The work continues because the challenges remain. So we encourage everyone to keep showing up. Not because it's comfortable or convenient, but because a thriving, sustainable future demands nothing less. And increasingly, the market rewards those who understand this truth. This has been demonstrated by BlackRock's 2022 finding that companies with better ESG risk ratings have shown greater financial resilience during market downturns. [1] https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/strategy-and-corporate-finance/our-insights/sustainability-sources-of-value-creation [2] https://www.morganstanley.com/ideas/esg-funds-outperform-peers-coronavirus [3] https://www.morganstanley.com/content/dam/msdotcom/en/assets/pdfs/3190436-20-09-15_Sustainable-Reality-2020-update_Final-Revised.pdf [4] https://www.morganstanley.com/press-releases/morgan-stanley-sustainable-reality-report-reveals-u-s--sustainab [5 ] https://mitsloan.mit.edu/sustainability-initiative/welcome [6] https://mitsloan.mit.edu/sustainability-initiative/aggregate-confusion-project [7] https://www.sciedupress.com/journal/index.php/ijba/article/view/27058 [8] https://www.gsi-alliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/GSIR-20201.pdf

Who We Are: Trianon Scientific Communication For over two decades, Trianon Scientific Communication has been at the forefront of revolutionizing sustainability approaches for industries facing environmental challenges. As CSR strategists specializing in both environmental and social sustainability, we partner with executive leadership to embed corporate social responsibility at the core of business strategy. Our foundational philosophy is simple yet powerful: "Your problem may not be sustainability itself, but sustainability is the solution." This insight has guided our unique approach to "making sustainability profitable" across diverse sectors. Through executive training, operational greening, and developing environmental and social innovations, we accelerate carbon reduction while simultaneously enhancing profitability. Trianon's expertise extends beyond decarbonization. We actively promote leadership diversity as an essential component of effective and inclusive ecological transition. Our combination of technical expertise, inspirational capacity, and commitment to inclusion enables companies to reconcile sustainability with profitability in today's complex business landscape. It is from this perspective that we examine one of the most overlooked aspects of both social sustainability and business performance: the hidden value of women's work. The revelation of absence When women stop working, the world notices. On October 24, 2023, something amazing happened in Iceland. Approximately 100,000 women and non-binary people didn't go to work. They went on strike for a whole day. The first time they've done this since 1975.[1] Their absence from workplaces across the country delivered a powerful statement about the value of women’s value in the economy and the inequalities they continue to face. Icelandic Women Strike in 1975 - Women's History Archives | Women's History Archives They wanted everyone to see two big problems: Women in some jobs still get paid 21% less than men for doing the same work Over 40% of Icelandic women have experienced gender-based violence. But these strikes show us something bigger too: how much society depends on women’s contributions, whether they’re paid or unpaid. This chart shows the unadjusted gender pay gap in selected EU member states. Women's work: the hidden pillar of society Addressing the hidden value of women's work creates substantial business opportunities. Women and girls handle over 75% of the world’s unpaid care tasks and form two-thirds of paid care workers. Every day, they dedicate 12.5 billion hours to unpaid care. It is enough to fill 1.4 million years of nonstop work. If this labor were paid at minimum wage, it would add $10.8 trillion yearly to the global economy, a value three times larger than the entire tech industry. In developping nations, rural women often spend up to 14 hours daily on chores like cooking, cleaning, and childcare. Globally, 42% of women are blocked from paid jobs due to caregiving duties, compared to just 6% of men. Most domestic workers worldwide are women (80% of 67 million), yet 90% lack social security, and over half face unlimited work hours with no legal protection. These gaps highlight the urgent need to recognize and support caregiving as essential work.[2] Female doctor with a female patient The money impact When women work in paid jobs, good things happen: Economies grow stronger; Businesses become more diverse and successful; Income gaps shrink; Countries handle crises better; In America alone, women's work adds $7.6 trillion to the country's money each year. If all working American women took just one day off (like the Icelandic women did), the country would lose almost $21 billion in a single day![3] In the UK alone, improvements in female participation between 2011–2023 contributed £6.2 billion annually to GDP, with potential growth reaching £43.5 billion by 2030 if progress continues.[4] In Europe, women also play a crucial role in economic growth: Closing the gender pay and participation gaps could elevate EU GDP per capita by 6.1–9.6% by 2050.[5] Women's contribution to GDP in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) ranges from 38–43%, slightly above the global average of 36%. [6] The gender employment gap cost Europe €390 billion in 2023, equivalent to 2.3% of the EU’s GDP.[7] This shows how essential women work is to keeping economies running. Beyond GDP: The uncounted contributions Here's where things get really interesting. Conventional economic metrics overlook crucial value: Beyond their paid jobs, women do tons of work that nobody pays them for: Taking care of children Looking after older family members Cleaning homes Cooking meals Managing household needs Planning family schedules and events (often called the “mental load”). This work is super important for families and communities. But it doesn't count in a country's official money measurements. How much is this unpaid work actually worth? About $10.9 trillion worldwide in 2020. That's more than twice the size of the entire global tech industry! Just in America, if women got minimum wage for their unpaid work, they would have earned about $1.5 trillion in 2019.[8] Woman cooking The uneven distribution of unpaid work: Health and career impacts on women Women worldwide bear a disproportionate burden of unpaid labor, facing significant physical and mental health consequences. Daily activities like cooking, cleaning, and lifting frequently result in physical strain, leading to chronic pain, injuries, and long-term health complications. The mental health toll is equally concerning, with many women experiencing anxiety, depression, and burnout from managing constant responsibilities. Despite their essential contributions to family functioning, many women report feeling undervalued and unappreciated for their efforts at home. The invisible "mental load" compounds these challenges. Women typically shoulder the responsibility of planning, organizing, and worrying about family needs such as remembering birthdays, scheduling appointments, monitoring household supplies, and anticipating others' needs. This constant mental vigilance creates a never-ending cognitive burden that rarely receives acknowledgment. Woman depressed The global statistics are staggering. Women collectively perform 12.5 billion hours of unpaid care work daily. In the United States, women spend 4.5 hours on daily unpaid tasks compared to men's 2.8 hours. Even in countries renowned for gender equality, such as Iceland, women still contribute more unpaid labor than men. The disparity becomes even more pronounced in countries like Egypt, where women dedicate 5.4 hours daily to unpaid work while men average just 35 minutes. Across Europe, the gender gap in unpaid work persists with varying intensity. European Union women spend approximately 4 hours daily on unpaid care work, while men contribute about 2 hours, creating a consistent 2-hour daily gap. Country-specific data reveals significant variations: France shows women spending 3.7 hours on unpaid work versus men's 2.1 hours; Italy demonstrates a wider gap with women at 4.6 hours compared to men's 1.5 hours; and Germany reports women spending 4 hours while men contribute 2.5 hours. Even the progressive Nordic countries maintain a gender gap of 1-1.5 hours daily. Eastern European nations often display even larger disparities, with women in Poland, Romania, and Hungary typically investing 3-4 more hours daily in unpaid work than men. These differences reflect complex factors including policy environments, cultural expectations, parental leave structures, childcare accessibility, and deeply embedded gender norms. Countries with comprehensive family-friendly policies and robust childcare systems generally demonstrate smaller, though still persistent, gender gaps in unpaid labor. An analysis of figures from 75 countries shows that women complete more unpaid work than men in every region of the world. Statista The career implications of this unbalanced workload create another dimension of impact on women's wellbeing. The extensive time devoted to unpaid domestic responsibilities often forces women to reduce work hours, decline promotions, or exit the workforce entirely. This "motherhood penalty" results in diminished earning potential, reduced retirement savings, and limited career advancement. Women frequently find themselves in a double bind, simultaneously judged for being insufficiently committed to either their careers or their families. The resulting financial stress, combined with career frustration and frustrated ambitions, creates additional health risks including chronic stress, compromised immune function, and increased vulnerability to various health conditions. The pressure to perform perfectly in both professional and domestic spheres leads many women to sacrifice self-care, sleep, and leisure time, essential components of maintaining physical and mental health.[9,10,11] Another crucial distinction lies in the nature of these responsibilities. Women's tasks, such as cooking, childcare, and cleaning, typically demand attention every day at specific times. Meanwhile, men's traditional responsibilities, like lawn maintenance or household repairs, generally allow for greater flexibility and can often be postponed without immediate consequences. Invisible labor at work: Another hidden value of women's work The burden doesn’t stop at home. In workplaces, women often take on “invisible labor”—tasks that are essential but go unnoticed or unrewarded: Organizing team events or sending gifts for colleagues. Taking meeting notes or tidying up shared spaces. Providing emotional support to coworkers. This kind of work helps build company culture but rarely leads to promotions or recognition. In fact: Women are asked to do these tasks 44% more often than men. When men perform these tasks, they’re seen as going “above and beyond” and are more likely to be rewarded. This imbalance affects women’s career growth and contributes to the gender pay gap over time.[12] The business case for change Trianon Scientific Communication helps organizations implement proven strategies for addressing these imbalances: Comprehensive family support policies  that recognize caregiving across all genders Workplace flexibility  without career penalties Recognition systems  that value traditionally invisible contributions Equal distribution  of office housework and emotional labor Leadership modeling  of work-life integration Organizations implementing these approaches report: Reduced turnover costs Improved talent acquisition Enhanced innovation metrics Stronger team performance Greater organizational resilience Iceland shows the way forward When Icelandic women first went on strike in 1975, amazing things happened: Five years later, Iceland elected its first woman presiden. Iceland has now been ranked n°1, in the world for gender equality, for 14 straight years The country has closed 91.2% of its gender gap (America is at about 75%; Europe is about 76%). The 2023 strike was another big step toward complete equality. It showed how powerful collective action can be! The path forward Trianon Scientific Communication partners with forward-thinking organizations to create sustainable change: Implementing evidence-based workplace policies that address both visible and invisible gender gaps. Developing metrics that capture the full spectrum of organizational contributions. Building cultures where unpaid labor is recognized, valued, and shared equitably. When organizations acknowledge women's comprehensive contributions, both recognized and hidden, they create workplaces that are not only more equitable but demonstrably more innovative, resilient, and profitable. The message from Iceland resonates clearly: women's work, in all its forms, is essential to organizational and economic success. Companies that recognize this reality gain significant competitive advantage in an increasingly complex global marketplace. Thousands participated in the women's strike in Iceland on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 to protest unequal pay and gender-based violence. This picture specifically shows the crowd in Reykjavik, Iceland. Photo Credit: Arni TorfasonCopyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved [1] https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/70333/40-years-ago-women-iceland-went-strike [2] https://www.oxfam.org/en/not-all-gaps-are-created-equal-true-value-care-work [3] https://www.forbes.com/sites/evaepker/2023/10/31/women-handle-75-of-all-unpaid-labor-their-health-pays-the-price/ [4] https://www.pwc.co.uk/services/economics/insights/women-in-work-index.html [5] https://eige.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/economic_benefits_of_gender_equality_briefing_paper.pdf [6] https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/featured%20insights/europe/closing%20the%20gender%20gap%20in%20central%20and%20eastern%20europe/20210917_win%20win_cee%20women%20report_final.pdf [7] https://www.mynewsdesk.com/eurofound/pressreleases/mind-the-gap-gender-employment-gap-cost-europe-over-390-euros-billion-in-2023-3373047 [8] https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/03/04/opinion/women-unpaid-labor.html [9] https://africanjournalofbiomedicalresearch.com/index.php/AJBR/article/view/5817 [10] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128190081000109 [11] https://www.bmj.com/content/374/bmj.n1972 [12] https://synd.io/blog/invisible-labor-in-the-workplace/

Today let’s celebrate  Dr Audrey-Flore Ngomsik  who helps businesses every day to embed sustainability, with the conviction: "Your problem may not be sustainability itself, but the solution is." Cover page Women in sustainability What inspires you? What inspires you? How do you see the future? How do you see the future? What is your message? What is your message Women in sustainability - A book by Joanna Sullivan

Interview par Virginie Allard (BXFM 104.3) Virginie Allard interviewing DrAudrey-Flore Ngomsik

EPC Copendium 2025 For  #IWD2025 , the  European Policy Centre  asked me to write my view on this statement "Together, we are powerful" for their annual copendium. Knowing the actual political climate, I thought that the theme was spot on. As the scientist that I am, I have decided to give my scientific view on that statement. Take the time to also read the different perspectives on the matter of  Ana Berdzenishvili ,  Arnaldo Mina Mendoza ,  Beatrice White ,  Brooke Moore , @Chaka Welch,  Danielle Brady ,  Elizabeth Kuiper ,  Emma Woodford ,  Fabian Zuleeg ,  Georgia Mourad Brooks ,  Giulia Torchio ,  Guido Broekhoven ,  Iana Maisuradze , @Irune Aguirrezabal Quijera,  Jibecke Joensson, PhD ,  Joanna Maycock , @Juliet Lawal, @Katy Gil, @Kel Nkondock,  Laura Sullivan ,  Liza Saris ,  Madda Henry Magbity ,  Méabh Mc Mahon ,  Nina Brkuljan ,  Roberta Metsola ,  Samia Mármol Conejo ,  Thanos Dellatolas ,  Tyana Barry , @Wael Maâninou,  Xheimina Dervishi ,  Corina Stratulat  and  Attila Kovacs . The article has been originally published here . Together we are powerful - A scientific view My contribution is page 4. Together we are powerful - A scientific view

Last week, I found myself immersed in the vibrant energy of MWC Barcelona 2025 , one of the world's largest and most influential trade shows for the mobile and telecommunications industry. As someone who has dedicated two decades to sustainability, as a researcher, as an executive, and as a CSR strategist, I approached this massive technology showcase with both excitement and a healthy dose of skepticism. MWC 2025 Barcelona The AI revolution on display at MWC Barcelona The sheer magnitude of the event was staggering, imagine an airport with 8 terminals... That was that big! Though perhaps I shouldn't have been surprised. If we're applying Artificial Intelligence to every aspect of our lives, shouldn't the showcase for such applications be equally vast? Walking through the exhibition halls, I was bombarded with slogans about "AI made for people," "AI serving people," and "AI helping people." These messages reminded me of Honorine Umuhire 's insightful observation: "Cybersecurity and technology are about people, they need to put people first... and the sector seems to understand that now." It appears the AI industry is following that prediction. Hallelujah! Or so it seemed at first glance. The data dilemma My skeptical side quickly emerged. Before we celebrate AI as our universal problem-solver, we must confront a fundamental truth: AI is only as good as the data that feeds it. If the quality of our data is poor, how can we expect AI to help us solve the 21st century's challenges in a fair and equitable way? This question took on new urgency as I observed the event's operations. From the registration process to the mandatory app for digital tickets, to the eagerness of attendees to try new technologies at every stand, the amount of personal data and images being collected was concerning. What happens to this information after the event concludes? Is it destroyed, sold, or repurposed in ways we haven't consented to? The AI-sustainability paradox AI-powered sustainability slogan When I see slogans where "AI" and "sustainability" stand side by side in the same phrase, I always feel perplexed. Is this a new type of greenwashing that we've collectively accepted? The concept of "AI-powered sustainability" certainly seems attractive, and it works in many cases: Smart grid systems reducing energy consumption by up to 30% in cities like Copenhagen and Singapore Precision agriculture technologies helping farmers increase yields with fewer resources AI-powered modeling making climate predictions more accurate and helping communities prepare for change Blockchain enabling transparent supply chains that verify ethical and sustainable practices But isn't this potentially counterproductive, especially when we know AI is "drying up the planet"? The questions we must ask As sustainability professionals, we need to ask hard questions: Is the energy usage of AI applications (which can be up to 1000 times more intensive than traditional applications) worth the marginal benefits they provide? Should tech companies be held accountable for their environmental impact, especially when they abandon carbon neutrality to prioritize AI development? We know these issues exist, yet we continue down this path. Remorse or regret? A magazine cover I once saw asked: "Is it better to have remorse or regrets?" In ten years, will we regret having used AI without fully understanding the consequences, when only billionaires like Elon Musk and Bernard Arnault will enjoy basic resources because they've depleted what we have for their personal profit? Or will we regret not embracing this new industrial revolution if we let it pass us by? Take some time to watch the serie called " Extrapolation ", this is very well illustrated there. My panel experience: Talent for a sustainable future During the conference, I had the privilege of speaking on a panel titled " Talent for a Sustainable Future: A Look Beyond Digital Skills." It was refreshing to see so many women participating. I shared my pivotal career moment, the experience that defined what kind of scientist I would become, and discussed algorithmic biases and their detrimental impact on climate change mitigation efforts. Algorithmic bias stems from a lack of diversity in the creation, preparation, and processing of data, resulting in unequal treatment of users. Knowing that climate change catastrophes emphasis systemic inequalities that already exist in society, I emphasized that the primary role of the digital sector should be to ensure equitable treatment for all users. Sabrina Steinerga, Amina Boubendir, Maria Paula Caycedi, Han Wen, Dr Audrey-Flore Ngomsik, Edouard Martin Conclusion My experience at MWC Barcelona 2025 was eye-opening. The technology on display was undeniably impressive, but as someone who has spent two decades championing sustainability, I left with as many questions as answers. The intersection of AI and sustainability represents both enormous opportunity and significant risk. Our challenge now is to harness the former while mitigating the latter, ensuring that technology truly serves people and planet, not just profit.

The financial reality of climate change The numbers are staggering. In 2025, more than $250 billion in damages from Los Angeles wildfires alone.[1] In 2024, the top 10 climate disasters have cost the world $228 billion, claimed more than 2000 lives, destroyed over 12,300 structures, and burned more than14,000 acres in what may become the costliest disaster in U.S. history.[2] The Los Angeles wildfires are climate disasters compounded | Extreme weather | The Guardian “Most of these estimates are based only on insured losses, meaning the true financial costs are likely to be even higher, while the human costs are often uncounted". Christian Aid, a global NGO What is procurement and why does it matter? Think of procurement as your company's shopping department. When a business needs anything from office supplies to manufacturing materials to shipping services, procurement is responsible for finding suppliers and making purchases. At Trianon Scientific Communication (Trianon), we've guided dozens of organizations through procurement transformations that have dramatically reduced their climate impact. Through our Sustainable Procurement Toolkit , we've helped businesses quantify and visualize these transformations. In fact, procurement isn't just a company's "shopping department", it's a powerful lever for meaningful climate action. Procurement department When a business needs anything from office supplies to manufacturing materials to shipping services, procurement makes decisions that cascade throughout the entire carbon footprint. For example, when a company buys 1,000 plastic chairs for its offices, procurement determines: Who makes the chairs (a factory running on coal or solar power?) What they're made of (virgin plastic or recycled materials?) How they're shipped (by plane, truck, or more efficient rail?) What happens at end-of-life (landfill or recycling program?) 1000 office plastic chairs Through our client engagements, we've seen how each of these decisions can transform the total carbon footprint of even simple purchases like office chairs. Understanding carbon footprints. When companies talk about reducing their "carbon footprint," they break emissions into three categories: Scope 1:  Emissions you create directly Example:  The exhaust from your company's delivery trucks or the natural gas burned in your factory Scope 2:  Emissions from the energy you buy (Indirect emissions from purchased electricity and energy) Example:  The electricity powering your office building or warehouse Scope 3:  Emissions from everything else in your value chain (All other indirect emissions in a company's value chain) Example:  The emissions created when your supplier manufactures the products you sell, or when customers use your products What are scope 1, 2 and 3 [©Certainty] Why Trianon Scientific Communication positions procurement at the center of decarbonization. Through our extensive client work, we've discovered that procurement directly influences up to 70% of a company's carbon footprint. These decisions ripple throughout an organization's entire emissions profile, affecting all three scopes. Scope 3 typically represents the largest portion of a company's carbon footprint. According to recent studies, these supply chain emissions are up to 26 times greater than a company's direct operations.[3] This is precisely where our sustainability consulting and toolkit have driven the most significant change. How our clients' procurement choices changed their climate impact. Example 1: Office furniture purchase Our client's traditional approach:  One of our clients previously bought the cheapest desks available, made from non-sustainable wood and shipped from overseas. Trianon's climate-smart approach:  We helped procurement find locally-made desks from certified sustainable wood, reducing shipping emissions by 80% and supporting forest conservation. Example 2: Company vehicle fleet Our client's traditional approach:  Another client was leasing conventional gas-powered vehicles based solely on lowest monthly payment. Trianon's climate-smart approach:  We developed a holistic transport strategy that incorporated multiple mobility options: Electric vehicles for essential company cars, reducing emissions by 65% Corporate bike-sharing program for short trips, which eliminated 15% of local car journeys Public transport subsidies that increased employee usage by 40% Hybrid work policy reducing commuting needs by 30% Carpooling platform that increased average vehicle occupancy from 1.2 to 2.4 persons This integrated approach not only cut transport emissions by 72% but reduced total mobility costs by 28% over three years while improving employee satisfaction and wellbeing. The Business Case Simulator provided clear financial projections that convinced the CFO to approve the initiative. Example 3: Food service supplier Our client's traditional approach:   A tech company contracted with the food service provider offering the lowest per-meal cost for their company cafeteria. Trianon's climate-smart approach:   We facilitated a partnership with a provider offering seasonal, locally-sourced options that reduced transportation emissions and food waste while improving employee satisfaction. The Sustainable Procurement Toolkit's customized analysis demonstrated that while meal costs increased by 8%, overall employee productivity and retention benefits created a positive ROI within 18 months. The evolving role of the Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) "The role of Chief Procurement Officers now extends beyond 'better, cheaper, faster' to driving green procurement as a key strategy for global climate goals" notes a recent industry report.[4] Through Trianon's executive training programs , and the data-driven insights provided by our Sustainable Procurement Toolkit , we've helped today's CPOs lead the systemic changes needed to build resilient, low-carbon supply chains. This represents a fundamental shift in how procurement functions within organizations, from transactional cost centers to strategic value creators with environmental impact at their core. Why sustainable procurement makes financial sense While climate action is often framed as an ethical imperative, the financial case for procurement-led decarbonization is compelling: 1. Cost efficency (Avoiding the cost of climate inaction) In Europe, the devastating 2021 floods (Belgium, Germany and surrounding countries) illustrate the catastrophic costs of climate-related disasters. With economic damage estimated between €30-40 billion and insured losses between €8-10 billion, these events demonstrate how climate change directly impacts business operations, insurance premiums, property values, and supply chain stability. For our clients, these costs manifest as: For businesses, these costs manifest as: Supply chain disruptions Higher insurance premiums (if coverage remains available at all) Physical damage to assets Operational interruptions Reduced asset values Our consulting team has helped procurement departments play several critical roles in mitigating these impacts: Risk assessment and supplier diversification: We've guided procurement teams to identify supply chain vulnerabilities related to geographic concentration and establish relationships with alternate suppliers in unaffected regions. Sustainable procurement practices: Our team has implemented climate-conscious procurement policies that reduced overall climate impact while building resilience against extreme weather events. Our Sustainable Procurement Toolkit helped quantify these benefits in financial terms that resonate with CFOs and executive leadership. Technology investment: We've advised on procurement of advanced monitoring systems, predictive analytics tools, and climate modeling software to improve early warning capabilities and response planning. Supply chain visibility: We have deployed management solutions that provide end-to-end visibility, allowing for quicker identification of disruption points and faster recovery. Inventory management: We've developed strategies for buffer inventory of critical components, minimizing operational interruptions during supply chain disruptions. 2. Capturing cost savings and efficiency gains Sustainable procurement drives tangible financial benefits through: Reduced energy consumption and costs Lower resource usage Minimized waste management expenses Streamlined logistics Improved operational efficiency "Procurement is leading sustainability into the upstream part of the value chain. No one else is doing it." Bertrand Conqueret. This upstream influence creates opportunities for cost optimization that might otherwise be missed. For example, when our team worked with a hotel chain's procurement team to switch engaging us to energy-efficient lighting and low-flow water fixtures, they cut utility bills by 22% across all properties. By selecting resource-efficient products and services, procurement reduces ongoing operational costs. 3. Building resilience against future risks With freshwater species facing extinction risks and extreme weather events becoming more common, businesses with climate-resilient supply chains will maintain operational continuity while competitors struggle. This resilience translates directly to financial stability and competitive advantage. For example: A global food manufacturer sources cocoa beans as a key ingredient for their chocolate products. Their procurement team implemented several strategic changes that both reduced climate impact and built resilience. Before engaging us:  The company sourced cocoa primarily from a single region in West Africa prone to increasing drought conditions. They prioritized lowest-cost suppliers without environmental criteria, resulting in beans largely from farms practicing deforestation and monocropping. After engaging us:  The procurement team implemented these changes: Diversified sourcing geography : Established relationships with farmers across multiple regions (West Africa, South America, Southeast Asia), reducing vulnerability to region-specific climate events. Implemented environmental criteria : Developed supplier scorecards that rewarded sustainable farming practices like shade-growing techniques and agroforestry, which maintain biodiversity and improve soil health. Price premium for sustainable practices : Offered 15% premium payments to farmers using water-efficient irrigation and avoiding deforestation, incentivizing climate-smart agriculture. Long-term contracts : Shifted from spot purchasing to 3-5 year commitments with sustainable suppliers, allowing farmers to invest in resilient infrastructure and practices. Technology investment : Procured satellite monitoring services to verify compliance with no-deforestation commitments and measure carbon sequestration. Results our client achieved. 40% reduction in supply chain carbon footprint Maintained 98% supply continuity during a major drought that disrupted competitors Reduced water usage in the supply chain by 35% Avoided $12M in lost revenue that competitors experienced during climate disruptions Built stronger farmer relationships that increased quality while reducing long-term price volatility 4. Enhancing brand value and market position As investors and consumers increasingly favor sustainable businesses, procurement-led sustainability initiatives directly improve market position. The World Economic Forum predicts the green transition will boost the global jobs market by 78 million roles by 2030—creating enormous opportunities for forward-thinking organizations. For example, when a popular snack company's procurement team secured sustainable palm oil certification for all ingredients, they avoided consumer boycotts affecting competitors and gained market share. Trianon helped procurement, by ensuring products meet evolving sustainability expectations, protecting brand reputation and customer loyalty. Overcoming implementation challenges Despite its potential, procurement faces several challenges in driving decarbonization: 1. Supply chain complexity Modern supply chains involve multiple tiers across global networks, making emissions tracking challenging. The complex nature of supply chains and the difficulty of tracing emissions requires sophisticated data collection and analysis capabilities that many organizations are still developing. 2. Cross-functional collaboration Sustainable procurement demands cooperation between departments that often operate in silos. "It's about understanding others' roles and integrating capabilities to succeed together." Lauren Richardson, CPO at Colgate-Palmolive. Breaking down these institutional barriers is essential for meaningful progress. 3. Standardization and measurement The lack of standardization and measurement frameworks for sustainable procurement practices creates consistency challenges. Without universal standards, organizations must develop internal frameworks to evaluate supplier performance against clear sustainability metrics. Four key strategies for procurement-led decarbonization Organizations serious about leveraging procurement for climate action should implement these proven approaches: Strategy 1: Building the business case for sustainability Sustainability requires a solid business case for practical execution. CPOs must demonstrate that green procurement drives financial performance by building resilient operations, optimizing supply chains, and improving resource efficiency. Industry leaders should emphasize the partnership between procurement and finance to balance sustainability goals with business objectives. By making informed trade-offs, sustainable products like recyclable wind turbine blades and cleaner insulation technologies become integral to the value proposition. Strategy 2: Elevating procurement to the C-Suite For procurement to lead on sustainability, it must become a corporate priority with executive support. At a mid-sized electronics manufacturer, the procurement team attempted to introduce sustainability criteria into supplier selection and materials sourcing. However, without executive backing, these initiatives were consistently overridden when they conflicted with short-term cost objectives. The procurement team remained limited to traditional metrics of cost, quality, and delivery time. Following a leadership change, the new CEO established sustainability as a core corporate value and took these practical steps: Elevated procurement leadership : Created a new Chief Procurement and Sustainability Officer position reporting directly to the CEO, with a seat in executive leadership meetings. Revised performance metrics : Modified executive bonuses to include sustainability KPIs alongside financial targets, with 25% of variable compensation tied to meeting carbon reduction goals. Resource allocation : Approved budget for three new sustainability specialists within the procurement team and technology to track supply chain emissions. Formal mandate : Issued a company-wide directive requiring all departments to prioritize sustainable procurement, even when it meant a modest cost premium. Public commitment : The CEO announced ambitious scope 3 emission reduction targets to shareholders and customers, creating accountability. Results: Procurement successfully implemented a supplier sustainability scorecard that became a required part of all RFPs Achieved 32% reduction in supply chain carbon emissions within two years Redesigned packaging with sustainable alternatives, eliminating 450 tons of plastic annually Developed new products with 85% recyclable components, opening access to markets with strict environmental regulations Attracted top talent who cited the company's authentic sustainability commitment in choosing to join The key insight: When executive leadership made sustainability a genuine priority backed by resources, authority, and accountability mechanisms, procurement was empowered to make decisions that balanced short-term financial considerations with long-term sustainability impact. Strategy 3: Expanding Procurement's influence Procurement must work beyond its traditional boundaries, collaborating with product design, marketing, and HR. This cross-functional approach ensures sustainability is built into products from conception and communicated effectively to stakeholders. To make sustainability mainstream, we must innovate and industrialize sustainable practices across the supply chain." Oliver Bischof, CPO of Siemens Gamesa. This requires procurement to share sustainability metrics with other departments and suppliers, breaking down silos and fostering collaboration. Strategy 4: Building a sustainability legacy CPOs have a responsibility to create lasting impact through systemic change. This legacy approach ensures that sustainability becomes embedded in organizational DNA rather than remaining a temporary initiative. Imagine a CPO (Chief Procurement Officer) as the leader of a newly established community garden in a neighborhood where most residents have never gardened before. Short-term vs. Systemic Approach: Short-term approach:  The garden leader could simply buy vegetables from the store each week and place them in the garden for people to take. This would provide immediate results (food for the community) but creates no lasting change and requires constant intervention. Systemic approach (what Reed and Udesen advocate):  Instead, the garden leader: Creates infrastructure:  Installs irrigation systems, builds raised beds, and creates composting stations that will serve the garden for years. Establishes processes:  Develops simple guidelines for planting seasons, water conservation, and natural pest control methods. Builds knowledge:  Trains community members on sustainable gardening practices and creates easy-to-follow reference materials. Cultivates culture:  Organizes regular community events that make gardening a social activity and celebrates sustainable practices. Implements measurement:  Sets up simple ways to track harvest yields, water usage, and community participation to guide improvements. The Lasting Impact: Years later, even after the original garden leader has moved on, the community garden continues to thrive because: The physical infrastructure remains in place Community members understand sustainable gardening practices New gardeners are naturally mentored by experienced ones Sustainable decision-making has become habitual The culture values long-term garden health over quick yields Just as this garden leader transformed not just the physical space but how the community thinks about and practices gardening, effective CPOs transform not just what their companies buy, but how procurement decisions are fundamentally made. The urgent need for action The climate crisis isn't waiting, and neither should businesses. With global emissions required to drop 43% from 2019 levels by 2030 to prevent increasingly dangerous floods, droughts, and other impacts, the window for effective action is narrowing. Meanwhile, the cost of inaction continues to mount. When the richest 1% burn through their annual carbon budget in just 10 days, and a quarter of freshwater species face extinction risk, the environmental imperative becomes impossible to ignore. For businesses, these environmental realities translate to material financial risks that demand immediate attention. The recent California wildfires serve as a stark reminder that climate events don't just harm the environment—they devastate balance sheets, disrupt operations, and threaten business continuity. Conclusion: Procurement as a catalyst for climate action As we face the mounting costs of climate change, procurement emerges as a powerful lever for meaningful action. By influencing supplier selection, product specifications, transportation methods, and packaging requirements, procurement departments can drive substantial emissions reductions while creating business value. The transformation of procurement from a cost-focused function to a sustainability driver represents one of the most significant opportunities for businesses to address climate change. CPOs who embrace this expanded role won't just reduce their organization's carbon footprint—they'll build more resilient, efficient, and profitable businesses better equipped to thrive in an increasingly carbon-constrained economy. The cost of climate inaction is already too high and rising rapidly. Through strategic procurement transformation, businesses can mitigate these costs while positioning themselves for success in a decarbonized future. The question isn't whether your organization can afford to transform procurement for sustainability—it's whether you can afford not to. [1] https://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/accuweather-estimates-more-than-250-billion-in-damages-and-economic-loss-from-la-wildfires/1733821 [2] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/2000-dead-288bn-lost-to-top-10-climate-disasters-in-24-report/articleshow/116779646.cms [3] https://www.bcg.com/press/25june2024-corporates-supply-chain-scope-3-emissions-higher-than-operational-emissions [4] https://blog.convergentis.com/role-of-procurement-in-decarbonization

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, or IPCC, is like a global team of climate experts who work together to understand and explain climate change. Think of it as a worldwide scientific council that helps governments make informed decisions about climate issues. Since it started in 1988, the IPCC has been working to include more diverse voices in its reports, though there's still room for improvement. Over the years, the IPCC has made significant progress in bringing more women and researchers from developing countries (often called the Global South) into its team of authors.[1] IPCC logo Key findings In their most recent major report, about one-third of the authors were women, and 43% came from developing countries. This is a big step forward, but it still means that men and researchers from wealthy nations remain the majority. To put this in perspective, imagine a large international conference room where climate scientists are discussing how rising temperatures affect different parts of the world. While you'll see more women and experts from places like India, Brazil, or Kenya than you would have thirty years ago, the room is still dominated by researchers from places like the United States and the United Kingdom. In fact, these two countries continue to provide the most authors for IPCC reports. Knowing that there are the least impacted by the climate change consequences, this is a problem. The limited representation in IPCC reports from certain regions is a problem For example, when discussing how climate change affects agriculture, a farmer in sub-Saharan Africa faces very different challenges than a farmer in Europe. Without strong African representation in the IPCC (South Africa is currently the highest-ranked African country, at number 18 in terms of author numbers), important perspectives on dealing with drought, changing rainfall patterns, and their impact on local communities might not receive enough attention. Consider another example. In many parts of Asia and Africa, women are often responsible for collecting water for their families. When climate change leads to water scarcity, these women are directly affected. Having female authors from these regions participating in IPCC reports means these specific challenges are more likely to be recognized and addressed in climate policy recommendations. Scientists fighting climate change (Copyright Image suppled by IoP) The lack of diverse voices can affect how we approach solutions too. A researcher from the Amazon region might have different insights about forest conservation than someone who has never worked in a rainforest. Similarly, a scientist from a small island nation would bring crucial understanding about rising sea levels and their impact on coastal communities. The underrepresentation of women and people from the Global South creates significant challenges that go beyond simple numbers. When we lack diverse voices in climate science, we risk missing crucial perspectives and experiences. For instance, a researcher from Mumbai might understand firsthand how urban flooding affects densely populated cities in monsoon regions, while a scientist from the Sahel region would bring invaluable insights about desertification and its impact on local communities. Unintended biases This lack of representation can create unintended biases in how we understand and prioritize climate issues. Consider how different communities experience climate change: while a coastal city in a wealthy country might focus on building expensive sea walls or expansive floating self sufficient cities like oceanix [2]. While a similar city in a developing nation might need to explore more affordable, nature-based solutions. Without authors from these regions, such alternative approaches might never make it into the reports. The Oceanix City_ https://www.designboom.com Fairness and equity The issue of fairness and equity is particularly pressing since climate change often hits vulnerable populations the hardest. The principle of "nothing about us without us" becomes especially relevant here. How can we make decisions about climate adaptation in the Pacific Islands without substantial input from Pacific Islander scientists? Or develop policies about Arctic climate change without indigenous researchers from the region? Trust and credibility in climate science Trust and credibility in climate science also depend heavily on representation. When communities see their own experts and experiences reflected in IPCC reports, they're more likely to engage with and implement the recommended solutions. For example, when local scientists participate in IPCC work, they often become bridges between global climate science and their local communities, making the findings more accessible and relevant to local contexts. Capacity building The participation of authors from the Global South has another important benefit: it helps build scientific capacity in these regions. When a researcher from a developing country contributes to an IPCC report, they gain valuable experience and connections that can enhance climate research in their home institution. This creates a positive cycle where more local experts can contribute to both global and regional climate science. Gender diversity in authorship is equally crucial Women often experience climate change impacts differently than men. For instance, in many agricultural communities, women are primarily responsible for food production and water collection, activities directly affected by climate change. Female scientists can bring these perspectives to the forefront, ensuring that gender-specific challenges and solutions are properly addressed in climate policies. Women play an important role in India’s agricultural development, both as farmers and agricultural labourers, but are often not taken into account as far as decision making goes. By employing women at the Village Knowledge Centres, they are included in agricultural matters they otherwise may not have been a part of. Photo: Ragnar Våga Pedersen.[3] When we achieve better representation in IPCC authorship, we create a stronger sense of global ownership in addressing climate change. It's no longer seen as just a Western scientific endeavor but truly becomes a global collaboration. This broader ownership leads to more effective implementation of climate solutions across different regions and cultures. Looking ahead. The IPCC continues to work on becoming more inclusive. This isn't just about fairness – it's about making sure their reports capture the full picture of climate change and its solutions. After all, climate change affects everyone on Earth, so it makes sense that the team studying it should represent people from all parts of the world. The story of the IPCC's changing diversity is like watching a garden grow. While it started with just a few types of plants, it's slowly becoming more varied and richer. There's still more work to be done in cultivating this diversity, but each new assessment report shows progress toward a more inclusive and representative group of climate experts. This evolution is essential not just for the IPCC's credibility, but for developing effective, equitable solutions to one of humanity's greatest challenges. Cover IPCC assessment report 2023 [1] https://www.carbonbrief.org/analysis-how-the-diversity-of-ipcc-authors-has-changed-over-three-decades/ [2] https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/case-studies/a5317-oceanix-city-by-bjarke-ingles-the-floating-city/ [3] https://www.nibio.no/nyheter/climate-smart-agriculture-to-ensure-a-food-secure-future

As we step into 2025, the landscape of sustainability is set to evolve dramatically, reflecting the urgent need for innovative solutions to our planet's challenges. Throughout the past year, we have diligently explored groundbreaking advancements and strategies that prioritize environmental and social sustainability. Here are the key insights and trends that have captured our attention for 2025. Textile waste : new regulation and their impact on social entreprises. Model in a Waste recycling plant. Viktor Drachev/TASS Starting January 1, 2025, a new European directive will require the selective collection of textiles, meaning you can no longer toss old clothes, rags, or linens into regular trash bags (white bags in Belgium). In Belgium, we already have a strong textile collection system with over 8,500 drop-off points run by organizations like Oxfam and Les Petits Riens. However, this new rule is causing concern among these social enterprises. Their goal is to gather high-quality clothing for resale in second-hand shops, which helps fund their social projects. Unfortunately, the rise of fast fashion has led to a flood of low-quality items that are difficult to recycle or reuse. Right now, about 20% of what’s collected ends up incinerated at a hefty cost of €300 per ton . If this continues, it could seriously threaten the financial health of these organizations that are already struggling to cope with the sheer volume of discarded textiles. Find out more Ban on disposable E-cigarettes to protect youth and the environment. e-cigarette From 1 January, it will be forbidden to sell single-use vapes in Belgium. Belgium is leading the way with its ban on disposable e-cigarettes, a significant step forward in addressing youth vaping. This measure is crucial, as these colorful, flavored devices have become incredibly popular among young people. The problem is that these products are marketed as disposable, but they actually contain toxic and flammable components that must be returned for recycling . Moreover, young users often consume them without realizing the risks, leading to increased frequency and quantity of nicotine intake. Find out more   New regulation on packaging waste. So called "sustainable packaging" Attention, entrepreneurs! Starting in 2025, new EU regulations will significantly impact how you manage packaging. With ambitious targets to  reduce packaging waste—5% by 2030 and 10% by 2035 —you'll need to rethink your strategies to minimize materials and comply with these standards. Certain single-use plastics will be banned by 2030, creating an opportunity for you to innovate with sustainable alternatives that attract eco-conscious consumers. Additionally, all packaging must be recyclable, and you'll need to incorporate recycled content into your products. By embracing these changes, you can position your business as a leader in sustainability while meeting the growing demand for environmentally friendly practices. Now is the time to adapt and thrive! Find out more New simplified framework for sustainability reporting Collection of data for repoorting In February 2025, the EU is set to unveil a new Simplification Package that will streamline sustainability reporting regulations, including the EU Taxonomy, Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). This initiative aims to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses while ensuring that sustainability remains a priority. This simplification could help alleviate some of the complexities and costs associated with compliance. However, it’s crucial to stay vigilant, as there are concerns that easing these regulations might dilute essential climate action goals. Embrace this opportunity to enhance your sustainability practices. You should focus your resources on implementing environmental and social sustainable practices rather than allocating excessive funds to reporting. Find out more DEI will remain a core competency to drive innovation & sustainability in business. Meeting room In 2025, while DEI faces significant pushback with major companies like Walmart and Boeing rolling back their initiatives, data continues to demonstrate its crucial business value. Companies that prioritize inherent and acquired DEI are unlocking significant financial benefits. Research shows that organizations with higher diversity levels generate 45% of their revenue  from innovative initiatives, compared to just 26%  for those with below-average diversity. This innovation is vital for achieving sustainability goals, as diverse teams are better equipped to develop creative solutions for reducing CO2 emissions.  In fact, the National Grid reports that 62% of respondents believe DEI can help overcome innovation challenges  essential for reaching net-zero targets. To navigate this complex landscape, companies will increasingly focus on quantifiable metrics to demonstrate DEI's impact, leveraging AI tools for unbiased assessments, and fostering practitioner collaborations. Companies maintaining strong DEI practices will see enhanced environmental and social impact and revenue growth through innovative solutions for reaching net-zero targets.   Find out more Our commitment to sustainable transformation will be even stronger in 2025. As we enter 2025, we reaffirm our commitment to help our clients achieve meaningful sustainability. Our conviction is clear: "Your problem may not be sustainability itself, but the solution is." For over 20 years, our experts have been pioneers in transforming polluting industries by integrating sustainability & Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) into the core of business strategies. Our unique approach focuses on "making sustainability profitable." We empower decision-makers, enhance operational efficiency, and foster environmental and social innovations that not only accelerate CO2 emissions reductions but also stimulate profit growth. At Trianon, we go beyond mere decarbonization; we advocate for inherent and acquired diversity among leaders to ensure an effective and inclusive ecological transition. With our expertise and commitment to inclusion, we enable companies to reconcile sustainability with profitability. Our services include consulting services, audit, executive training, and public speaking, scientific & social innovation services for a successful sustainable business growth. Together, we can navigate the complexities of sustainable development and create a brighter, more sustainable future for your business and the planet. Let's embark on this journey together!

Alma Levant Hayden was a trailblazing chemist who left an indelible mark on drug safety and public health in the United States. Her story exemplifies the power of intersectionality in science and its crucial role in driving innovation and sustainability. Alma Hayden, 1952 (Photo Credit: Office of NIH History) A childhood of curiosity and determination Born in 1927, growing up in the segregated South, Hayden refused to let barriers stop her scientific curiosity. Despite facing significant obstacles as a young African American girl, she was driven by an intense passion for understanding the world around her. Her determination to learn and explore would become the cornerstone of her future scientific achievements. Embracing science as a career Hayden's journey into science began at South Carolina State College, where she graduated with honors in 1947. She initially wanted to become a nurse but discovered a passion for chemistry that she "just didn't want to part from". [1] This passion led her to pursue a master's degree in chemistry at Howard University, where she studied under renowned chemist Dr Lloyd Noel Ferguson, one of the founders of the professional organization for the professional advancement of black chemists and chemical engineer. Dr Lloyd Noel Ferguson Despite facing significant barriers as both a woman and an African American in the scientific community, Hayden persevered. Her determination and intellect allowed her to overcome the prejudices of the time, which often saw women and minorities excluded from scientific careers. She studied at the University of Howard, in Washington D.C., one of the most distinguished Universities of the USA, not sectarian but open to all sexes and races,[2] and obtained her master’s in chemistry. She specialised in infrared spectroscopy.[3] Infrared light is part of the electromagnetic spectrum. The human eye cannot see it, but humans can detect it as heat. Electromagnetic spectrum Infrared Spectroscopy is the analysis of infrared light interacting with a molecule. What is infrared spectroscopy? Imagine infrared spectroscopy as a detective tool that helps scientists "read" the identity and structure of molecules. Think of it like a molecular fingerprint scanner. Here's how it works: Every molecule is made up of atoms that are constantly vibrating and moving, kind of like tiny springs connected to each other. When infrared light (which is heat energy we can't see) passes through a sample, these molecular "springs" absorb specific amounts of that light based on their unique structure. It's similar to how each musical instrument has a unique sound, even when playing the same note. Just as you can identify a trumpet or a violin by its distinctive timbre, scientists can identify molecules by the specific way they absorb infrared light. Practical applications are everywhere: Chemists use it to identify unknown substances Forensic scientists analyze crime evidence Environmental researchers detect pollutants Pharmaceutical companies check drug purity Food scientists examine the composition of ingredients For example, if you wanted to know exactly what's in a mysterious powder or liquid, infrared spectroscopy could help you break down its molecular components without destroying the sample. It's like having a super-powerful microscope that can see the invisible "dance" of molecules, revealing their secrets through the way they interact with light. Alma Levant Hayden: an accoumplished scientist In the mid-1950s, Hayden joined the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services responsible for safeguarding public health through the regulation of food, drugs, and medical devices. Her appointment was a significant achievement, particularly given the FDA's reluctance to hire African American scientists at the time. This hesitancy came from concerns that their testimony in court cases might be disregarded or prejudice proceedings due to racial bias, especially in certain parts of the country. Despite these institutional barriers, Hayden's expertise and qualifications secured her position, marking a pivotal moment in the agency's history.[4] More, Hayden became Chief of the Spectrophotometer Research Branch in the Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry in 1963.[5] She worked with her colleagues on chromatographic techniques to characterise adrenocortical steroids in urine.[6] The main role of adrenal steroids is to regulate electrolyte and water levels in the kidneys. She also worked on characterising barbiturates and sulfonamides from paper chromatograms. Barbiturates are sedative drug used to relax the body and help people sleep, they were popular at the XIXth century at sleeping pills or recreative drugs. Sulfamides are an antibacterial agents. She has published 17 articles in renowned journals. Changing the World: The Krebiozen investigation Before talking about the Krebozien investifation, you should know about the thalidomide scandal and the Kefauver-Harris Amendment. The thalidomide scandal and the Kefauver-Harris Amendment In the late 1950s, thalidomide, a non-barbiturate sedative was advertised as safe for everyone, including pregnant women. Future mothers used to take the pill to prevent morning sickness. It was an over-the-counter drug sold in 46 countries, in the early sixties, as popular as aspirin.[7] Thalidomid tablets This medication caused thousands of mothers to give birth to disabled babies. Miscarriages happened, limbs failed to develop properly, in some cases also eyes, ears and internal organs. The effect of thalidomide by Reddit No-one knows how many miscarriages the drug caused or how many worldwide victims of the drug there have been, but it's estimated that, in the late 1950s and early 1960s, a range from 10,000 to 20,000 children in 46 countries were born with deformities.[8] This tragedy led to a revolution at the FDA regulatory authority: the requirement that all new drug applications should make a proof of efficiency for the targeted market application and should prove their safety for the consumer. This change called the Kefauver-Harris Amendment is the start of the FDA approval in its modern form and is the reason why bringing new drugs to the market is such a long and difficult process. [9] We will talk about the women who saved America from a generation of "thalidomide babies" in a future article. The Krebiozen investigation 1951 newspaper Quack Medicine KREBIOZEN is presented as "The miracle cancer cure drug" Following this tragedy, in 1963, Alma Hayden, then  Chief of the Spectrophotometer Research Branch in the Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, had to deal with major medical controversy. In 1940s, Dr Andrew Invy and Dr Stephan Durovic claimed that to have discovered a new drug derived from distilled blood serum of horses, called Krebiozen, able to cure cancer. In 1963, Hayden and her colleagues were assigned the task to determine what the drug was and whether it had any therapeutic benefits in treating the disease. Using infrared spectroscopy, and comparing images of over 20,000 known substances, Alma Hayden and her team analyzed Krebiozen and discovered that it was nothing more than creatine, a common amino acid derivative already found in the human body. [10] Spectrographic tracings of creatine and Krebiozen sample (FDA History Office) This revelation exposed the fraudulent claims surrounding the drug and protected countless cancer patients from exploitation. The history of the phony cancer drug Krebiozen by Sharita Forrest, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign “By the fall of 1963, FDA had reached its scientific conclusions. The Krebiozen powder, the agency announced, had been identified by several chemical tests as creatine . The contents of Krebiozen ampules were identified as mineral oil, with minute amounts of two other substances, amyl alcohol and 1-methylhydantoin, found in ampules shipped in 1963. FDA’s chemical analysis was soon supported by the findings of the National Cancer Institute that Krebiozen ‘does not possess any anticancer activity in man.'” [11] Ivy and Durovic were brought to trial in 1964.[10] 1965 Press Photo Dr. Steven Durovic, Marko, Andrew Ivy, in U.S. District Court. Despite her irrefutable evidence, Hayden encountered resistance from Krebiozen's passionate supporters and manufacturers. The drug's defenders claimed there was a conspiracy to keep it off the market, and newspapers demanded "Real Hope To Cure Cancer". Kennedy pushed for Krebiozen When the case went to trial in 1965, Hayden was one of 179 witnesses who testified, presenting her findings amidst a highly controversial and emotionally charged atmosphere. he defense exploited the jury's lack of scientific expertise, sowing doubt about the precision of her methods. Ultimately, despite Hayden's clear evidence and testimony, the jury shockingly acquitted the defendants, demonstrating the uphill battle she faced in convincing the public of the truth behind this medical scam. Recognition and legacy While Hayden's groundbreaking work did not receive widespread recognition during her lifetime, her contributions to regulatory science and public health protection were significant. She testified at the criminal trial of Krebiozen's promoters, demonstrating the crucial role of scientific evidence in law enforcement. Today, Hayden is remembered as a pioneer who paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in science. Alma Levant Hayden died at 40 years old of liver cancer. Alma Levant Hayden (1927 - 1967) Intersectionality: the key to innovation Hayden's success can be attributed, in part, to her unique intersectional perspective. As an African American woman in a field dominated by white men, she brought a multifaceted approach to her work. Her experiences likely heightened her awareness of the importance of rigorous scientific standards and ethical considerations in protecting public health. This intersectionality allowed Hayden to challenge conventional thinking and apply a more holistic approach to drug safety. Her background as a member of marginalized communities may have contributed to her dedication to exposing fraudulent treatments that often preyed on vulnerable populations. Parallels with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Hayden's story offers valuable lessons for modern Corporate Social Responsibility practices: Ethical decision-making : Her commitment to exposing the truth about Krebiozen, despite potential backlash, exemplifies the ethical backbone necessary in CSR. Scientific rigor : Hayden's insistence on thorough testing mirrors the need for companies to base decisions on solid evidence and research. Protection of vulnerable populations : Her work in exposing fraudulent cancer treatments aligns with CSR's focus on protecting consumers and ensuring product safety. Diverse perspectives : Hayden's unique background contributed to her innovative approach, highlighting the value of diversity and inclusion in corporate decision-making. Conclusion Alma Levant Hayden's life and work underscore the critical role of intersectionality in scientific innovation and its parallel importance in corporate social responsibility. Her legacy continues to inspire scientists and business leaders to embrace diverse perspectives, maintain ethical standards, and prioritize public health and safety in their pursuits of progress and sustainability. This article is part of a series "Embracing intersectionality in science: the key to innovation and sustainability". [1] https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/fda-history-exhibits/alma-levant-haydens-contributions-regulatory-science [2] Celebrating Black History Month with Dr. Percy Lavon Julian,a pioneer in the chemistry of plant   [3] https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt? [4] https://aaregistry.org/story/alma-levant-hayden-chemist-born/ [5] https://cen.acs.org/articles/90/i14/Black-Women-Chemistry-Pioneers.html   [6] https://eje.bioscientifica.com/view/journals/eje/23/4/acta_23_4_001.xml   [7] https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=41632795 [8] https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/23/health/thalidomide-survivors-usa.html   [9] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kefauver_Harris_Amendment   [10] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/alma-levant-hayden-first-black-woman-in-the-fda [11]   https://science.sciencemag.org/content/151/3714/1061

In the realm of aerospace engineering, few stories resonate as powerfully as that of Mary Jackson, whose journey is emblematic of the struggle for equality and representation in science. The 2016 film Hidden Figures brought her remarkable story to a global audience, highlighting not only her groundbreaking achievements but also those of her fellow African American women mathematicians at NASA. Mary Jackson played a pivotal role in the success of the United States space program during a time when racial and gender biases were deeply intertwined in American society.[1] Early life and education Born in Hampton, Virginia, in 1921, Mary Jackson showed an early aptitude for mathematics and science. Jackson's early life was marked by academic excellence. She attended Hampton's all-Black schools, including the George P. Phenix Training School, where she graduated with high honors in 1937. This achievement, despite the challenges of racial segregation, demonstrates her exceptional abilities and determination from a young age.[2] After high school, Jackson went on to attend Hampton Institute (now Hampton University), a historically black college. She graduated with high honors in 1942, earning dual bachelor's degrees in mathematics and physical science. Obtaining a dual degree was a significant accomplishment, especially for a black woman in the segregated United States of the 1940s. It's important to note that while racial segregation presented significant barriers, historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) like Hampton Institute played a crucial role in providing higher education opportunities for African Americans during this period. These institutions allowed talented students like Jackson to pursue advanced studies in fields that might have been otherwise inaccessible due to racial discrimination. Mary Jackson's early career Mary Jackson's career path before joining NASA reflects the complex challenges faced by African American women in the 1940s and early 1950s. Despite her impressive educational background, with dual bachelor's degrees in mathematics and physical science, Jackson navigated a series of diverse positions shaped by the societal norms and limitations of her time: Jackson began her professional journey as a mathematics teacher at an African American school in Calvert County, Maryland, for a year after graduation. Returning to Hampton in 1943, she took on a role as a bookkeeper at the National Catholic Community Center. Her career then led her to a position as a receptionist and clerk at Hampton Institute's Health Department. Following societal expectations for women of that era, Jackson took time away from her career to focus on family responsibilities after the birth of her son. She later worked as an Army secretary at Fort Monroe. In 1951, just before joining NASA, Jackson held a clerk position at the Office of the Chief Army Field Forces at Fort Monroe.[3] This varied career trajectory illustrates the limited opportunities available to African American women in STEM fields during this period. Jackson's experiences were shaped by racial and gender discrimination, economic necessities, and societal expectations regarding women's roles. Despite these challenges, she consistently sought positions that would allow her to utilize her strong background in mathematics and physical science, demonstrating her determination to pursue a career aligned with her education and skills. Mary Jackson' contributions to aerospace engineering Finally, in 1951, Jackson was recruited by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA. This marked a pivotal moment in her professional journey, as she began her career as a research mathematician in the West Area Computing Section at Langley Research Center, where she could finally apply her scientific knowledge and skills in a meaningful way. Mary Jackson's career at NASA represents a remarkable journey of perseverance, innovation, and advocacy in the field of aerospace engineering. As the first African American female engineer at NASA, Jackson broke through significant barriers in a male-dominated and racially segregated environment, making substantial contributions that advanced the field of aerodynamics and aircraft design. The Supersonic Pressure Tunnel One of her most notable achievements was her groundbreaking research in the Supersonic Pressure Tunnel, where she studied the effects of airflow on aircraft traveling at nearly twice the speed of sound. This facility was crucial for understanding how aircraft behave under extreme conditions, and Jackson's work focused specifically on the complex dynamics of boundary layer effects on aerospace vehicle configurations at supersonic speeds. By analyzing data from wind tunnel experiments and real-world flight tests, she gained insights into air flow, thrust, and drag forces that were essential for improving the performance of U.S. aircraft. To explain this in simpler terms: Imagine a paper airplane flying through the air. The way the air moves around the nose (front) of the plane affects how well it flies. Mary Jackson studied how the shape of the nose and the speed of the plane change the way air flows over it when the plane is flying incredibly fast - faster than the speed of sound. She found that by adjusting the angle of the nose and the speed of the aircraft, engineers could control where the smooth air flow around the plane becomes turbulent. This discovery was crucial because it helped designers create better, more efficient supersonic aircraft by reducing drag and improving overall performance This research was published in her first co-authored report in 1958, titled "Effects of nose angle and mach number on transition on cones at supersonic speeds".[4] Her work contributed to the development of faster, more aerodynamic planes, which was vital for both military and civilian aviation advancements during the space race era. Throughout her career, Jackson authored or co-authored twelve technical papers for NACA (the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics) and NASA, contributing valuable knowledge to the aerospace community. Advocating for women and minorities in the aerospace Mary Jackson's legacy extends far beyond her groundbreaking technical achievements in aerospace engineering. Throughout her career and especially in her later years, she became a powerful advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, working tirelessly to create opportunities for women and minorities in science and engineering. After 34 years of distinguished service at NASA, Jackson made a bold and selfless decision. Despite having reached the highest engineering title available to her, she recognized that to effect real change, she needed to shift her focus. In a move that exemplified her commitment to others, she accepted a demotion to become the manager of both the Federal Women's Program and the Affirmative Action Program within NASA's Office of Equal Opportunity Programs.[5] In these roles, Jackson's impact was profound and multifaceted. She mentored countless young students, particularly women and minorities, providing personalized guidance and unwavering support. Her famous quote, We have to do the best we can with what we have, became a rallying cry for those facing obstacles in their STEM careers. Jackson worked diligently to improve hiring and promotion practices at NASA, challenging discriminatory policies and advocating for systemic changes. She was instrumental in establishing programs that provided resources and opportunities for underrepresented groups in STEM, laying the groundwork for initiatives like STEM Goes Red, [6] which continues to inspire middle school girls to pursue science and technology careers. As a public speaker and role model, Jackson used her platform to raise awareness about the importance of diversity in STEM fields. Her own career served as a powerful example, demonstrating that women and people of color could not only succeed in engineering but make significant contributions to scientific advancements. Jackson's advocacy work has had a lasting impact on the scientific community. Her efforts have inspired numerous programs and initiatives that continue to support diversity in STEM fields today. By working to ensure that future generations would have better opportunities than she faced, Mary Jackson played a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive and diverse scientific landscape. Through her technical brilliance, unwavering determination, and commitment to others, Mary Jackson not only broke barriers for herself but dedicated her life to dismantling them for those who would follow. Her legacy continues to inspire and guide efforts to create a more equitable and diverse STEM community. Intersectionality in science: Mary Jackson's impact Mary Jackson's life and career powerfully illustrate the importance of embracing intersectionality in science. As an African American woman in aerospace engineering during the mid-20th century, Jackson navigated multiple intersecting layers of discrimination and barriers. However, her unique perspective and experiences allowed her to: Bring diverse viewpoints to problem-solving in aerospace engineering Inspire and mentor other underrepresented individuals in STEM Challenge and change institutional practices that hindered diversity and inclusion Awards and recognition Mary Jackson's contributions to science and society have received significant recognition, particularly in recent years: The book and film "Hidden Figures" brought Jackson's remarkable story to a global audience, highlighting her groundbreaking work as NASA's first Black female engineer. Portrayed by Janelle Monáe in the 2016 film adaptation, Jackson's character embodies resilience and determination, inspiring a new generation to challenge societal norms in STEM fields. In a momentous tribute to her legacy, NASA renamed its headquarters in Washington, D.C., the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters in 2019. This honor acknowledges her pivotal role in advancing both aerospace technology and equality within the organization. Jackson was also posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2019, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States. This prestigious recognition further cements her place in history as a trailblazer who overcame significant barriers to make lasting contributions to science and society. These accolades serve to preserve Mary Jackson's legacy, ensuring that her pioneering spirit and dedication to advancing both scientific knowledge and social progress continue to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers. Conclusion Mary Jackson's legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the untapped potential that exists when we embrace diversity and intersectionality in science. Her story inspires us to continue breaking down barriers and creating inclusive environments where all individuals, regardless of their background, can contribute to scientific advancement and sustainable innovation. This article is part of a series "Embracing intersectionality in science: the key to innovation and sustainability". [1]   https://arvellcraig.com/personal-growth-leadership-lessons-from-hidden-figures/ [2] https://www.biography.com/scientists/mary-winston-jackson [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Jackson_(engineer) [4] https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/19930085290 [5] https://www.nasa.gov/history/mary-w-jackson/ [6] https://www.goredforwomen.org/en/get-involved/attend/stem-goes-red