Difference between Men and Women on Strategy for How They Manage Sustainability

Abstract

The research on sustainability and gender critically examines how gender differences shape beliefs and practices related to environmental sustainability. Conducted through in-depth interviews with a diverse cohort of participants, the study reveals that women exhibit a stronger commitment to sustainable practices compared to men. Female respondents are more likely to consistently engage in environmentally responsible behaviors, such as recycling and ethical consumption, and are also more inclined to participate in community-based sustainability initiatives. In contrast, male participants tend to focus more on technological innovation and large-scale solutions to environmental issues. The content analysis of the interviews indicates that women conceptualize sustainable development as a multifaceted issue encompassing environmental, economic, and social dimensions. Conversely, men are more likely to perceive sustainability primarily in terms of technological advancements and efficiency. This divergence in perception can be attributed to traditional gender roles and societal expectations that influence individual worldviews. Additionally, the research highlights that personal experiences and socioeconomic context play a significant role in shaping attitudes toward sustainability. Women from disadvantaged backgrounds tend to develop a heightened environmental awareness due to the economic challenges they face, while men with higher levels of education are more inclined to adopt sustainable technologies.

Presenters

Pablo A Müller-Ferrés
Profesor Asociado, Facultas de Administración y Negocios, Universidad Autonoma de Chile, Chile

Nathaly Vera
Directora de Carrera, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Araucanía, Chile

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Economic, Social, and Cultural Context

KEYWORDS

Sustainability, Gender differences, Entrepreneurship