The Egyptian Biodynamic Association (EBDA), in collaboration with the Economy of Love (EoL) standard, successfully hosted the fourth Climate Heroes Forum at the campus of Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development. The forum was held under the theme “The Role of the Economy of Love in Empowering Women and Driving Community Development.”
The event brought together policymakers, academics, environmental experts, and development practitioners to celebrate smallholder farmers who are pioneers in biodynamic agriculture and carbon sequestration practices. It also shed light on the essential role of women in strengthening rural communities, enhancing sustainability, and achieving long-term community development.
Government Support for Regenerative Agriculture
The forum emphasized the Egyptian government’s support for scaling up regenerative agriculture and women’s empowerment in line with the Economy of Love standard. By linking sustainable farming with economic and social development, the initiative is aligned with Egypt’s Sustainable Development Goals 2030.
Women at the Heart of the Economy of Love
Panel discussions highlighted how the EoL standard provides women with opportunities to transform their communities. By connecting regenerative farming practices with carbon credits and fairer market participation, EoL enables women to achieve economic independence while strengthening their cultural and social roles.
Holistic approaches were also presented, including health awareness programs that place women as key drivers of sustainable development, alongside financial inclusion solutions such as those offered by Do-Pay. These initiatives ensure women’s equal access to the benefits of regenerative agriculture.
Keynote Address and Global Perspectives
In his keynote speech, Mr. Helmy Abouleish, CEO of SEKEM Holding and Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development, said:
“The Economy of Love is a holistic vision where ecology, economy, culture, and social well-being converge. By equipping women and men alike with the tools to contribute to their communities, we are laying the foundation for a more sustainable and equitable future for Egypt.”
The event also featured international speakers sharing global perspectives on regenerative development, in addition to inspiring stories from women in Marsa Matrouh, who demonstrated the central role of women in advancing sustainable livelihoods in their local communities.
Recognizing Egypt’s Climate Heroes
The forum honored the Climate Heroes – farmers across Egypt adopting EoL-certified practices. These practices reduce emissions, restore soils, and build resilient communities. Since 2022, the initiative has expanded from 400 farmers to more than 34,000 adopting biodynamic agriculture and benefiting from carbon credits.
Scaling Up Regenerative Agriculture Nationwide
The fourth Climate Heroes Forum is part of a national series of events held in 2025 to recognize farmers committed to the Economy of Love standard. The initiative reflects EBDA’s mission to expand regenerative agriculture, promote women’s empowerment, and strengthen community development throughout Egypt.
