This paper examines the role of women in European Territorial Cooperation (ETC) projects addressing climate neutrality and environmental sustainability. Grounded in European union cohesion policy, ETC programs aim to enhance regional integration through cross-border collaboration, with increasing attention to gender equality. The analysis highlights how women are not only beneficiaries but also key actors in driving ecological transition and innovation. Drawing on data from the Gender equality index and Eurobarometer surveys, the article explores persistent structural inequalities and societal stereotypes, underlining the added value of female leadership in environmental governance. It reviews best practices from Interreg projects where women engage in training, green entrepreneurship, social innovation, and decision-making processes. These projects demonstrate how women contribute to sustainable development in rural and marginal areas. Finally, the study argues that integrating gender mainstreaming into environmental policies is essential for a just, inclusive, and effective ecological transition across European regions.
