Women at Risk in the Transition to Green Jobs

The transition to green jobs poses significant risks for women due to their underrepresentation in STEM fields. With only 6 percent of women in advanced economies holding these jobs compared to over 20 percent of men, women’s economic opportunities may dwindle as green jobs, which offer higher wages, grow. Enhancing women’s participation in STEM and addressing labor market barriers are crucial for an equitable transition to a sustainable economy.

The transition to green jobs, driven by the global shift toward cleaner energy sources, presents not only a risk to men employed in polluting industries but also a significant challenge for women. According to recent analysis, while men occupy approximately 70 percent of the world’s polluting jobs, women face a disproportionately high risk of exclusion from the burgeoning green job sector due to their underrepresentation in crucial fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Currently, women only comprise 6 percent of the workforce in advanced economies with green jobs, contrasting starkly with over 20 percent of men employed in these roles. This underrepresentation is further pronounced in emerging markets and developing economies. As the global labor market increasingly shifts towards sustainable employment opportunities, it becomes imperative to recognize that women’s limited access to these jobs may not only perpetuate gender inequality but also hinder economic advancement. Green jobs typically offer a considerable wage premium over traditional jobs, with women in Colombia, for example, earning a 16 percent premium compared to men who earn 9 percent more than their counterparts. The gender gap in STEM education remains a critical barrier, as women are less likely to hold qualifications necessary for thriving in these in-demand green roles, which are projected to grow significantly amid governmental efforts to achieve net-zero emissions. Countries that foster a larger ratio of STEM-educated workers, coupled with strong gender equality policies, often witness greater reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Research indicates these nations experience emissions intensity that is 2 to 4 percentage points lower due to the innovative contributions of STEM-educated individuals in the green transition.

The global focus on promoting environmentally sustainable practices has led to an increasing demand for green jobs—occupations that contribute to efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhance environmental sustainability. Despite the anticipated growth in this sector, the gender imbalance within green jobs may exacerbate existing inequalities in the labor market. The underrepresentation of women in STEM fields—critical for accessing these employment opportunities—poses a risk of restraining women’s potential contributions to the green economy while limiting their access to potentially lucrative positions.

In conclusion, the transition to a more sustainable economic model necessitates a concerted effort to ensure that both men and women can engage equitably in the new green job market. This requires addressing the barriers to women’s participation, particularly through enhancing STEM education accessibility, providing mentorship opportunities, and reforming labor market policies to create a more inclusive workforce. By ensuring that women are represented and equipped for emerging green jobs, societies can optimize their response to climate challenges, drive innovation, and support economic growth. Inclusive policies, such as those implemented successfully in Ireland, demonstrate that targeted efforts can yield positive results in narrowing the gender gap in STEM fields. Policymakers must prioritize strategies that promote women’s involvement in green jobs to ensure a fair and effective transition to a sustainable economy.

Original Source: www.imf.org