The world we live in faces a multitude of environmental challenges. Climate change, resource depletion, and safety concerns all necessitate a proactive approach to safeguarding our planet and its inhabitants. This is where the field of Environment, Health, Safety, and Sustainability (EHS) comes in.
EHS professionals are the guardians of a sustainable future, working to ensure responsible practices across industries. From mitigating environmental risks to promoting worker safety and resource management strategies, EHS is a dynamic and ever-evolving field.
The EHS industry has traditionally been viewed as a male-dominated domain. However, women have always played a vital role in ensuring the well-being of workers and protecting the environment. From pioneering scientists – such as Dr. Alice Hamilton, hailed the “mother of industrial toxicology" -- to fearless advocates -- like Frances Perkins who created the Bureau of Labor Standards, the precursor to present day OSHA -- women have paved the way for a safer and healthier future for all.
Strength in Diversity: Why Gender Parity Matters in EHS
A diverse workforce, with a strong presence of women, brings a significant advantage to the EHS field. The beauty of EHS lies in its inherent variety. A career in EHS offers the opportunity to specialize in a wide range of areas – air quality, water quality, food safety, healthy homes, preparedness, climate change, occupational health, industrial hygiene and more. This breadth of practice areas allows individuals with different backgrounds and skillsets to find their niche within the EHS umbrella.
Unfortunately, current EHS gender diversity doesn't reflect the richness of its practice areas. Statistics show a gap, with women currently representing only a portion of the EHS workforce. While there are over 6,400 EHS specialists currently employed in the United States, a recent survey indicates that only 27% of them are women, with the remaining 73% being men. These statistics aren't meant to discourage; they're a reminder of the vast potential for growth in attracting and retaining talented women in EHS.
Studies by McKinsey & Company have shown that companies with greater gender diversity outperform their less diverse counterparts. This diversity of thought allows for more effective solutions and a more comprehensive understanding of potential risks and opportunities within the EHS landscape. For example, female leadership styles tend to focus on collaboration, long-term planning and inclusive decision-making. This is critical for tackling complex EHS challenges that require solutions considering social, economic and environmental factors. Simply put, when women bring their unique perspectives to the table, the entire EHS field benefits.
Leading by Example: Antea Group's Women in EHS
At Antea Group, we understand the value of a diverse workforce and are proud to have several women who are leading the charge in EHS. Here are a few examples:
Alizabeth Aramowicz Smith, Senior Consultant, Health & Safety Practice Leader: Alizabeth is a champion for total worker health. With her in-depth knowledge of occupational hazards and global regulatory landscape, she develops comprehensive safety programs that minimize risk factors and ensure employee well-being within various industries.
Elizabeth Beck, Senior Consultant, Sustainability Practice Leader: Elizabeth spearheads Antea Group's sustainability offerings, helping clients implement innovative and effective solutions that address the environmental, social, and governance challenges and opportunities. Her passion for climate action inspires businesses to adopt more sustainable practices throughout their operations.
Lauren Corbett Noon, Senior Consultant, EHS Auditing & Compliance Practice Leader: Lauren is a leader in environmental management, specializing in EHS data collection and analysis for global environmental due diligence and regulatory compliance programs. Her expertise helps companies address EHS management issues critical to sustaining operational performance and efficiency.
These are just a few examples of the remarkable women at Antea Group who are making significant contributions to the EHS field and are paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Building the Future: How Organizations Can Empower Women in EHS
Organizations have a crucial role to play in attracting, retaining, and empowering women in EHS. Here are some actionable steps to consider:
- Mentorship Programs: Connect entry-level women with experienced EHS professionals can provide invaluable guidance and support for career development.
- Unconscious Bias Training: Educate employees about unconscious bias can help create a more inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to thrive.
- Flexible Work Arrangements: Offer flexible work options can help create a more supportive environment for women with diverse needs and responsibilities.
- STEM Education: Collaborate with schools, universities and community groups to encourage girls and young women to pursue STEM education and careers that lead to EHS roles is pivotal for shaping the future of the industry.
- Advocating for Equal Pay: Take proactive steps to conduct regular pay audits and implement clear compensation guidelines to ensure women in EHS are not earning less than their male counterparts.
By implementing these initiatives and fostering a culture that celebrates diversity, organizations can unlock the full potential of women in EHS.
Conclusion: A Sustainable Future for All
The challenges facing our planet require collaborative effort. By fostering gender diversity in EHS, we can leverage the unique talents and perspectives of women to build a more sustainable future. When women are empowered to lead in EHS, we can ensure a healthier environment, safer workplaces, and a more equitable world for generations to come. Let's continue to break down barriers and embrace the power of a diverse workforce in building a sustainable future for all.
