Author(s) :

Charlotte Donohue.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

This project investigates why women entrepreneurs are disproportionately engaged in sustainability, a phenomenon often described as the “eco-gender gap.” While women are consistently more likely than men to embed sustainable practices into their businesses, the underlying causes of this divide are complex and multi-dimensional. This paper is structured as a narrative review drawing from peer-reviewed research in psychology, gender studies, and business, as well as industry talks and case studies, this review examines three primary drivers: psychological motivations, social and cultural influences, and economic conditions. Psychologically, women often draw on values such as empathy, responsibility, and long-term thinking, which make sustainability both meaningful and rewarding. Socially, sustainability is frequently coded as “feminine,” reinforcing women’s participation while discouraging men from engaging in practices perceived as unmanly. Economically, consumer demand often rewards women-led sustainable businesses, but barriers such as limited access to venture capital and institutional support prevent women from scaling these ventures as effectively as men. By synthesizing evidence across these domains, this project highlights both the opportunities and burdens embedded in women’s environmental leadership. Ultimately, it argues that sustainability must be reframed as a shared responsibility across genders, ensuring that women’s disproportionate contributions are recognized, supported, and balanced by broader participation.