Women as Catalysts for Advancing Nutrition-Focused Sustainable Development Through Eco-Friendly Dietary Practices

Women occupy a transformative role in advancing nutrition-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), and SDG 5 (Gender Equality). Their contributions as caregivers, decision-makers, and entrepreneurs in food systems position them as key drivers of sustainable food practices. However, structural barriers such as limited education, inadequate financial resources, and entrenched socio-cultural norms often constrain their potential impact. This review synthesizes existing literature to explore the connections between women’s nutrition, eco-friendly dietary practices, and broader sustainable development goals within the framework of inclusive green economies. It examines women’s roles in promoting sustainable food systems and highlights the intersection of gender, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. The paper discusses the influence of women-led initiatives, including community gardening, organic farming, and eco-friendly food enterprises, on food security and environmental preservation. Case studies are presented to showcase successful women-driven projects that have improved dietary diversity, reduced malnutrition, and enhanced sustainability. Findings emphasize that empowering women with education, resources, and leadership opportunities significantly amplifies their contributions to sustainable development. Active participation by women in sustainable food practices not only improves household nutrition but also fosters community-wide benefits in food security and environmental outcomes. Despite these positive impacts, challenges such as unequal access to education, financial constraints, and limited policy support remain pervasive and require targeted solutions. This paper advocates for a multi-faceted approach to maximize women’s potential in achieving nutrition-related SDGs. Key strategies include implementing policies to enhance women’s access to financial resources, delivering capacity-building programs, and fostering leadership development. Integrating green technologies and encouraging community-based initiatives are identified as critical components for ensuring long-term sustainability. In conclusion, this review underscores the vital role of women as agents of change in bridging the gaps between gender, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. Supporting women through comprehensive policies and targeted interventions can accelerate progress toward inclusive green economies while addressing global challenges in nutrition and sustainability. By investing in women’s empowerment, we can create healthier, more equitable, and sustainable societies.