Land and forest accepts the Equality Balance Award

The Equality Balance Award, a project of the Association of Businesswomen in Iceland (FKA), was presented at a special ceremony on October 10. This recognition is bestowed upon companies and organisations that have achieved gender equality in their boards of directors, and this year saw an unprecedented number of recipients.

According to FKA's press release, ninety-three companies, fifteen municipalities, and twenty-two public entities were recognised out of a total of 247 participants who had signed a declaration of intent to achieve this goal. The aim is to establish a gender ratio of at least 40/60 in the highest level of management. Elín Fríða Sigurðardóttir, Director of Finance and Operations at Land and Forest Iceland, accepted the recognition on behalf of the organisation.

Equality has a direct impact on the environment

Since 2020, the project leaders have been collaborating with the Reykjavík Forestry Association to plant trees in the Equality Grove (Jafnvægislundur in Icelandic), a designated area within the Heiðmörk Forest. Each year, one tree is planted for every recipient of the award. These trees are prominently situated on a hill that is visible upon entering Heiðmörk Forest from the Vífilstaðir side. With the latest additions, the total number of trees planted in the Equality Grove over the past five years has reached 392. The selection of tree species is diverse, symbolising the inclusivity and variety that the Equality Grove represents. This approach aligns with the objectives outlined in the announcement made by the FKA. The long-term vision is to continue this annual tradition and witness the gradual transformation of the hill as progress is made in achieving gender equality.

• More on the FKA website, fka.is (in Icelandic)