Women in science have long defied barriers, challenged stereotypes, and pushed against systemic constraints to make their mark. From Ellen Swallow Richards’ pioneering work in water quality research to today’s leading female scientists, women have been shaping the water and circular economy sectors for generations. Yet, despite their contributions, female representation in Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) remains disproportionately low. To foster innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, more women are needed in these fields and strong role models to inspire them.

Role models serve as catalysts for change, showing young women and early-career professionals that success is possible. Seeing other women thrive in STEM fosters confidence, ambition, and a sense of belonging. Studies confirm that women are more likely to pursue STEM careers when they have visible female mentors who demonstrate what’s achievable.

Nowhere is this need more urgent than in the water sector. Women disproportionately bear the brunt of water-related challenges. 80% of households without direct water access rely on women and girls for collection, yet their voices remain largely absent from leadership and policy-making. Increasing female representation in water science and management isn’t just about fairness, but it is fundamental to building inclusive, effective solutions to global water challenges.

Across the world, female scientists are driving water research, innovation, and policy. The 2024 OWSD-Elsevier Foundation Award recognized five outstanding women from the Global South for their groundbreaking work on water quality. These researchers, from Bangladesh, Brazil, and South Africa, are tackling pollution, sanitation, and waterborne diseases—issues that demand diverse perspectives and female-led solutions.

Women have always played key roles in shaping water policy and research. But how often do we recognize their impact? Below are five pioneering women who represent various aspects of water science, from fundamental research and policy development to applied solutions in the circular economy, spanning from the 19th century to today.

  • Ellen Swallow Richards (USA, 19th-20th Century): The first woman admitted to MIT, Richards revolutionized environmental chemistry and water quality analysis, making ground-breaking contributions to water quality analysis and sanitation. Her work laid the foundation for modern environmental engineering, particularly in ensuring clean water supplies and improving public health standards.
  • Patricia Mulroy (USA, 20th-21st Century): As a former General Manager of the Southern Nevada Water Authority, Patricia Mulroy played a crucial role in water policy and resource management in arid regions. Her leadership in advocating for sustainable water use and conservation in the face of climate change has been instrumental in shaping water governance.
  • Marcia Barbosa (Brazil, Present-Day): A renowned physicist, Barbosa has advanced the study of water’s molecular properties, helping to develop solutions for water purification and accessibility. Her work is particularly important for addressing global water scarcity and improving sustainable water management strategies.
  • Amina T. Mohammed (Nigeria, Present-Day): Currently serving as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina T. Mohammed has been a leading advocate for water sustainability, gender equity, and climate resilience. Her efforts in policy-making and sustainable development have helped shape international strategies for water security, particularly in vulnerable communities.
  • Veena Srinivasan (India, Present-Day): A leading expert in water sustainability and circular economy solutions, Dr. Veena Srinivasan is known for her work on integrated water resource management, particularly in South Asia. Her research bridges science and policy, emphasizing the need for data-driven decision-making in tackling water scarcity, pollution, and equitable access to resources.

Strong female role models can transform the future of water management and the circular economy. By celebrating their achievements, fostering mentorship, and dismantling barriers, we can build a more inclusive and dynamic scientific community.

The BOOST-IN project is committed to gender mainstreaming across all phases of its implementation and actively ensures diverse perspectives in its developments and outcomes. Encouraging the next generation of women in STEM isn’t just about representation, it’s the only way to drive the sustainable solutions our planet desperately needs. Happy International Day of Women and Girls in Science!