This International Women’s Day, we are proud to celebrate Barbara Albert, Co-CEO of 100% Renewables, for being featured in Impact Leadership Magazine!

In an exclusive interview with Darwin Jayson Mariano, Barbara shares her journey into sustainability, the evolving role of business in climate action, and why empowering women in leadership is essential for a sustainable and resilient future.

As a leader in the net zero space, Barbara has always challenged the mindset that sustainability is a cost. Instead, she sees it as a strategic opportunity—one that enhances efficiency, competitiveness, and long-term resilience. In her feature, she provides insights into how organisations can achieve net zero profitably, leverage technology for emissions tracking, and position themselves for success in a low-carbon economy.

“Net zero shouldn’t just be seen as a branding or compliance exercise, but as an investment in market positioning and future-proofing the business.”

Achieving net zero profitably

Barbara is passionate about helping businesses shift their perspective on sustainability. Rather than seeing it as a regulatory burden, she encourages organisations to treat net zero as a business transformation strategy—one that drives innovation, cost savings, and market differentiation.

She highlights three key strategies for achieving net zero profitably:

✅ Optimising energy use and electrification – Businesses should eliminate energy waste, transition to electric solutions, and implement smart energy management to lower costs and reduce emissions.

✅ Decarbonising value chains – Addressing Scope 3 emissions (from suppliers, transport, and purchased goods) is critical. Engaging suppliers to adopt low-carbon solutions and source sustainable materials strengthens supply chains and enhances market positioning.

✅ Repositioning businesses for growth and resilience – Companies that embed sustainability into their core strategy are better positioned to attract customers, retain talent, and stay ahead of evolving regulations.

Barbara believes that organisations that take proactive steps today will gain a competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving market. Instead of being reactive, businesses should anticipate risks and opportunities as the global economy moves toward low-carbon solutions.

Women in leadership: Making an impact

Barbara’s feature in Impact Leadership Magazine highlights the critical role of women’s leadership in sustainability. The transition to a net zero future requires diverse perspectives, yet women remain underrepresented in decision-making roles.

To bridge this gap, Barbara emphasises the importance of:

🔹 Mentorship and sponsorship – Strong mentors and sponsors can open doors, provide guidance, and advocate for women in leadership.

🔹 Building powerful networks – Surrounding yourself with like-minded professionals and champions can create opportunities for career growth and influence.

🔹 Taking ownership and stepping forward – Leadership isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment. Women should put themselves forward for opportunities, even if they feel slightly out of reach.

“You get what you pitch for, so put yourself forward, speak up, and step into opportunities even if they feel slightly out of reach.”

🔹 Overcoming self-doubt – Imposter syndrome is common, but Barbara encourages women to trust their abilities, take risks, and step into leadership with confidence.

🔹 Focusing on what you can control – Instead of being discouraged by systemic barriers, Barbara urges women to leverage their strengths, take strategic action, and shape their own path to leadership.

Her message to aspiring leaders is clear: Don’t wait for an invitation to the table —own your space, embrace challenges, and drive change in sustainability and beyond.

We are incredibly proud to see Barbara’s leadership and expertise recognised on this platform. We hope her story inspires more organisations to embrace sustainability as a business opportunity—and more women to take ownership of their leadership journey.

📖 Read the full interview in Impact Leadership Magazine: https://impactleadershipmag.com/march-2025-issue-empowerment-purpose-and-the-future-of-leadership/  

If you need help developing a climate transition strategy and action plan, or a climate risk assessment, contact us today to learn how we can support your transition. Reach out to  Barbara or Patrick for more information. 

Feel free to use an excerpt of this blog on your own site, newsletter, blog, etc. Just send us a copy or link and include the following text at the end of the excerpt: “This content is reprinted from 100% Renewables Pty Ltd’s blog.