“Unveiling the Gendered Impact of Climate Change: Why Women Are Disproportionately Affected”

In a world where climate change and environmental issues are at the forefront of global discussions, the gendered impact of these crises often goes unnoticed. However, a growing body of evidence is shedding light on the disproportionate vulnerability of women and gender-diverse individuals to the changing climate and its consequences.

Studies have shown that women are 14 times more likely to die in climate change-related disasters than men, and they represent 80% of people displaced by extreme weather events. This disparity is not simply a matter of chance but is rooted in pre-existing social and economic disadvantages that women face. Women often take on the responsibility of caring for vulnerable groups, such as children and older people, making them more at risk of death or displacement during disasters.

Furthermore, research has revealed that women are more impacted by climate-linked health issues than men, with maternal and perinatal health particularly affected by hazards like extreme heat. Gender-based violence also consistently increases during and after disasters, highlighting the need for comprehensive policies and support for women in these situations.

The impact of climate change on housing and living conditions is also experienced in gendered ways, with rising costs of living, homelessness, and under-insured housing disproportionately affecting women. The Australian housing crisis is being exacerbated by the climate crisis, with women experiencing a higher increase in homelessness compared to men.

Despite these challenges, research shows that women and gender-diverse individuals bring crucial perspectives and leadership to tackling climate and environmental issues. Gender-diverse leadership results in more effective and equitable approaches, with larger numbers of women in politics and policy-making leading to stronger climate action policies and more ambitious targets.

However, gender diversity in industry leadership, particularly in renewable energy sectors, remains low. Only around 35% of the clean energy workforce is female, with women predominantly in non-technical roles. Efforts to increase diversity in STEM education and industries are crucial steps towards addressing these disparities.

In the recent federal budget, the government announced funding for programs to support women’s careers and increase diversity in STEM fields. While these are welcome developments, gender inclusion and equity need to be central in major initiatives like the Future Made in Australia Plan and the Net Zero Plan to ensure genuine inclusivity and achieve urgent climate change mitigation targets.

Women also play a key role in disaster preparedness and recovery, with research showing their contributions to community resilience at the local level. Recognizing and supporting these efforts is crucial in building stronger and more resilient communities in the face of increasing disasters.

As Australia aims to host the COP31 global climate change conference in 2026, it is essential for the country to demonstrate its commitment to addressing the gendered nature of climate and environmental issues. Targeted policy responses and inclusive leadership styles are urgently needed to transition to a renewable economy and ensure a more sustainable future for all.