Climate change is a threat multiplier for women. While 3.5 billion daily lives are reported highly vulnerable to climate change globally (by the Atlas of Human Suffering report), women are 14x more likely to be killed in a natural disaster. When communities are displaced after a disaster, women with less access to financial freedom find it harder to find and sustain livelihoods. 

Clearly, we need to rethink our current norms and practices such that no one is left behind in our climate response. While this is crucial on all fronts, women’s leadership is a non-negotiable start. Here’s why.

Inter-generational impact

Women as primary caregivers hold immense power to shape the future of our planet. Women, as mothers, are especially mindful of the impact of their actions on future generations and can drive a more conscious and sustainable world for all. With a voice in decision-making, they can ensure that future generations inherit a sustainable world. 80% of consumer choices are made by women and, armed with knowledge and awareness of sustainability, they have the potential to drive low-carbon lifestyles and bring about significant change. Intergenerational and gender equity go hand-in-hand when it comes to climate change. 

Diverse perspectives

Living in a man’s world means women’s voices and concerns are often overlooked in policy and strategy discussions. But when women are at these tables, we see more inclusive and equitable solutions to the climate crisis. By elevating women’s voices and experiences, we can ensure that marginalized communities, who are disproportionately impacted by the effects of climate change, are considered and protected. Women are already leading the charge in community-driven climate initiatives and it’s time to harness this power to drive positive change. Investing in women’s leadership is crucial to building a sustainable future for all.

Climate resilience

The impact of the climate crisis is highly gendered and women have to shoulder the worst of it. From having limited access to essential resources after a crisis to women being primarily responsible for securing food, water and fuel in most families and girls often having to drop out of school to support their families in communities displaced by climate change. The consequences of climate change only exacerbate existing gender inequalities, perpetuating a vicious cycle of injustice. However, with women taking the lead as agents of change, this gender divide can be reduced, leading to a more equitable and resilient future for all in the face of the climate crisis.

In conclusion, the gender divide in the face of the climate crisis can only be reduced through empowering women to lead the change. This not only addresses the existing inequalities but also leads to a more resilient future for all. Climate change is a threat multiplier, but with women at the helm, it can be transformed into an opportunity for a sustainable future for all.