Australia faces a daunting climate future, with projections indicating an increase from just four days to 18 days of extreme heatwaves each year. This alarming trend, which includes a predicted rise of 444 per cent in heatwave-related deaths in Sydney alone, poses significant risks to the nation’s tourism and hospitality sectors. A recent report from Swinburne University highlights the potential for appointing women to leadership roles as a strategy to bolster these industries against climate challenges.
The research, led by Dr. Wahed Waheduzzaman and Dr. Nandana Wasantha Pathiranage, emphasizes that enhancing gender diversity in management and board positions could lead to improved environmental policies and innovation in resource management. Dr. Waheduzzaman stated, “Rising temperature is not just a health tragedy; it is a tourism risk.” He noted that on dangerously hot days, outdoor activities such as city tours and events are unlikely to attract visitors.
The report argues that gender inclusion transcends social equity; it represents a critical climate strategy. Businesses that take proactive measures now will likely emerge stronger and more competitive in a warming world. As Australia mandates ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting starting January 2025, companies must disclose climate risks and their mitigation strategies.
Dr. Waheduzzaman explained that female board members may respond more adeptly to climate-related risks due to their socialization, enabling them to plan more effectively for extreme weather events. The research team asserts that business owners, industry stakeholders, and government entities need to monitor progress closely and leverage this opportunity to promote diversity.
“It’s imperative we respond to climate change, but also respond to its irreversible and worsening impacts to protect vulnerable people and our businesses so that everyone’s future is sustainable,” the researchers noted. They advocate for enhancing gender diversity in leadership positions as a straightforward yet crucial step toward safeguarding the tourism sector and the broader economy.
As Australia grapples with the increasing challenges posed by climate change, the integration of women into leadership roles could play a pivotal role in shaping a resilient tourism and hospitality landscape. By embracing diversity, these sectors can better adapt to environmental challenges while ensuring a safer and more sustainable future for all stakeholders involved.
