Positive Masculinity and Sustainability: Reclaiming the Earth Together

When discussing sustainability, the conversation often centers on technology, policy, or economics. Rarely do we pause to ask how gender norms shape our relationship with the planet. Yet the truth is, the ways we have been socialized—especially men—profoundly affect how we treat the Earth.

At a recent conference, I explored how positive masculinity can be a powerful ally in creating a healthier, more sustainable world.

Here are the key takeaways

The Problem with Old Models

For centuries, toxic masculinity and patriarchal systems have pushed an exploitative worldview:

• Domination over nature instead of partnership with it.

• Profit over care, prioritizing short-term gain while ignoring long-term costs.

• The “Independence Mindset”, where being self-sufficient is idealized, even if it means disconnection from community and environment.

This mindset has fueled extractive economies, consumerism, and even policies that leave women, girls, and marginalized communities disproportionately affected by poverty, hunger, and lack of access to education. These harms ripple out, weakening our collective ability to address climate change.

Where Patriarchy and Consumerism Clash with Global Goals

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) articulate a vision to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure well-being for all by 2030. Yet, patriarchal systems and consumer-driven models directly undermine many of these goals:

• SDG 1: No Poverty & SDG 2: Zero Hunger – Globally, women are more likely than men to live in poverty. The UN estimates that closing gender gaps in the workforce alone could add $28 trillion to global GDP by 2025, reducing poverty and hunger worldwide.

• SDG 5: Gender Equality – According to UN Women, women hold just 26.7% of parliamentary seats globally, limiting their influence over climate and sustainability policies.

• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – If current consumption patterns continue, we will need the resources of three Earths by 2050, according to the UN Environment Program.

• SDG 13: Climate Action – A UNDP study shows that countries with greater gender equality are more likely to adopt stronger climate policies. Patriarchal resistance weakens these chances.

• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – Systems built on domination rather than collaboration perpetuate inequality and conflict, slowing global progress on sustainability.

  
  

Patriarchal and consumerist values not only slow progress but also undermine global sustainability efforts.

Positive Masculinity as a Sustainability Tool

What if we flipped the script? Positive masculinity embraces traits that are often undervalued but essential for sustainability:

• Protection: Using strength to safeguard, not exploit.

• Collaboration: Working alongside, rather than competing against, others.

• Responsibility: Seeing ourselves as caretakers for future generations.

• Allyship: Using privilege to amplify women-led and community-based environmental efforts.

This is not about men “saving” the earth alone. It’s about men coming together to bring balance, accountability, and courage in their work.

How Men Can Step Up Now

Change doesn't have to wait for significant policy shifts. Every man can start today:

• Reduce consumption and waste in your own household.

• Support sustainable businesses and initiatives — especially those led by women and Indigenous leaders.

• Speak up in male-dominated spaces about climate, care, and responsibility.

• Mentor younger men to see strength as protection and stewardship, not domination.

Small actions, multiplied, can shift culture and systems.

A Call to Reclaim

The earth doesn't need another generation of conquerors; it needs guardians. By reclaiming positive masculinity, men can help build communities rooted in care, justice, and sustainability.

This isn't just about “going green.” It's about redefining strength. True strength is the courage to protect, to nurture, and to stand alongside others for the sake of generations yet to come.