This Earth Day, the message is clear: We need urgent, comprehensive climate action, and businesses must help deliver it.

On 11 April, after years of hard work, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) voted to decarbonize global shipping by setting regulations on greenhouse gas emissions.

Conversations about young people tend to focus on how they will shape the future. But Luísa Franco Machado, a Young Leader for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the United Nations, offers a fresh perspective.

Under the slogan “Ukraine needs agrarians,” SEED – which stands for Sustainable, Empowering, Ethical, Diverse – supports small businesses working in agricultural entrepreneurship and sustainable development. It offers up-to-date knowledge of business processes and tools to entrepreneurs creating jobs for themselves, their families and their communities.

Water is essential for life—a simple truth we all know. But what’s equally critical and sometimes overlooked is that it is also essential for business.

A diverse and inclusive workplace is not just a goal—it is a necessity. Businesses that embrace gender diversity and inclusion see tangible benefits, from increased innovation and productivity to improved employee satisfaction and financial success. However, women and marginalized groups still face significant barriers, including pay gaps, underrepresentation in leadership and systemic biases.

By aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities), as well as Principles 1 (Businesses' Support for Human Rights – ensuring respect and protection) and 6 (Elimination of Discrimination in Employment and Occupation) of the United Nations Global Compact, businesses have the opportunity to lead the way in shaping a more inclusive future where diversity is not only recognized but truly embraced.

In today’s rapidly evolving corporate landscape, advancing gender equality is not just a moral imperative—it’s a business advantage.

The 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) is set to be a landmark event in the global push for gender equality.

Until the mid-2010s, few companies reported on on their nature-related impacts. However, nature reporting has gained significant traction in the past few years as businesses recognize the financial, operational and reputational risks associated with nature loss and a lack of data monitoring.

Over the past quarter-century, the UN Global Compact has reshaped the way businesses operate, embedding sustainability into corporate strategy and fostering a global movement committed to responsible business practices. As we mark this milestone, we reflect on the progress made and reaffirm the urgent need for continued leadership, innovation and collaboration to build a more sustainable and inclusive future.

Gender equality is a fundamental human right as much as an economic and social imperative. The United Nations Global Compact remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) — achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls. We are driving meaningful change in workplaces, marketplaces and communities through strategic initiatives, partnerships and corporate engagement.