Inclusion for People and Planet

Why It Matters

Inclusion directly fuels employee productivity and enriches climate solutions, giving firms a competitive edge while meeting societal expectations for equity.

Key Takeaways

• Inclusion requires safety, respect, and use of preferred pronouns.
• Diverse perspectives improve environmental problem‑solving at UNEP globally.
• Authentic self‑expression boosts employee energy and productivity significantly.
• Inclusive culture is a human right and economic advantage.
• Collective action links social equity to planetary protection.

Summary

The video titled “Inclusion for People and Planet” frames inclusion as both a personal right and a strategic imperative for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It argues that true inclusion means feeling safe, respected, and able to use one’s preferred pronouns while contributing fully to social, political, and economic life.

Speakers stress that inclusive workplaces harness diverse backgrounds, viewpoints, and lived experiences, which are essential for tackling environmental challenges that affect communities unevenly. By eliminating “we‑and‑them” divisions, organizations unlock energy previously spent on concealment, redirecting it toward authentic performance and innovation.

Memorable lines such as “It takes a village to protect a planet” and “The less energy I spend on hiding who I am, the more energy I have to be my true self” illustrate how personal authenticity translates into collective climate action. The narrative underscores that billions of identities demand an inclusive approach as the first step toward protecting both people and the planet.

For businesses and NGOs, the message signals that embedding inclusive policies is not merely ethical—it drives better decision‑making, employee engagement, and resilience against climate risks. Companies that prioritize dignity and diversity are positioned to capture new perspectives, improve stakeholder trust, and meet emerging regulatory expectations.

Original Description

In this collection of reflections, UNEP colleagues share what inclusion means to them from respect, dignity, and authenticity to creating safe spaces where everyone can thrive.

At UNEP, inclusion is more than a principle. It is about embracing diverse identities, lived experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives to build stronger communities and better solutions for people and the planet.

Because environmental challenges affect everyone differently, inclusivity ensures every voice is heard and every person can participate fully in shaping a sustainable future.

Together, we can create a culture of respect.