10 Things to Know: Gender Equality and Achieving Climate Goals

Although climate change and poverty are increasingly recognised as interlinked global problems, responses often focus on their scientific and economic dimensions only. This research study highlights the advantages and challenges of pursuing climate compatible development, i.e. inclusive green growth, from a gender perspective, pulling in evidence from projects in Asia, Africa and Latin America. The field work focused particularly on urban environments, as there is a relative paucity of data from cities, compared to rural areas. While international frameworks are gradually becoming more aware of gender issues, all too often gender is simply “added” to existing policies. Women’s views, needs and participation are frequently excluded from climate change responses and development initiatives. Moreover women are often perceived as victims with little consideration for the contribution and leadership they could provide in adaptation and mitigation efforts. A comparative study of gender approaches in climate compatible development initiatives in Peru, Kenya and India asked:  

• What does a gender-sensitive approach to climate compatible development mean in different urban contexts?
• What is the evidence of the relevance of gender-sensitive programming in climate compatible development to promote and achieve people’s empowerment?
• What socio-economic, political and cultural factors constrain or favour gender-sensitive approaches in the context of climate compatible development?
• Does a gender-sensitive approach enable better climate compatible development outcomes and if so, how?