Global Women in Sustainability
Impact Top 50

ABOUT THE SELECTION

Recognizing the women shaping a sustainable future

The 2026 Global Women in Sustainability Impact Top 50 is an annual selection initiated by the Global ESG Leadership Association (GELA) and published by SustainX Institute, with support from the GSDI Foundation.

It recognizes women whose work turns sustainability into real change — across climate and environment, ESG and responsible business, green finance, technology for good, public health, education, social innovation, philanthropy and global governance.

This is not a ranking of titles or fame. The jury looks for sustained action, genuine contribution and lasting public value, and welcomes established leaders and emerging changemakers alike.

Who can be nominated

Women of any age, nationality, career stage or organization size whose work is meaningfully connected to sustainable development. Self-nominations are welcome, as are nominations from individuals, companies, NGOs, universities, media and partner organizations.

WHAT THE JURY LOOKS FOR

1. Relevance to sustainable development

2. Professional expertise and contribution

3. Action and tangible results

4. Social impact and public value

5. Innovation and problem-solving

6. Cross-sector collaboration

7. Women’s leadership and role-model value

TIMELINE

• Dec 1, 2026 – Jan 5, 2027 · Open nomination

• Jan 6 – 10, 2027 · Screening and verification

• Jan 11 – 17, 2027 · Expert jury review

• Late January 2027 · Top 50 announced

• From February 2027 · Honoree features and events

FOR HONOREES

An official certificate and digital badge, profile features across GELA’s global channels, inclusion in the annual case report, and priority invitations to GELA forums and summits, including the Global Sustainability Summit at Columbia University in New York.