The Indispensable Role of Women in Tackling Climate Change

During International Women’s Month, attention is drawn to women’s vital role in climate advocacy. The UN Environment Program emphasizes urgent climate action, especially the need for a 42% reduction in emissions by 2030. Notable leaders like Inger Andersen are highlighted in the Reuters Events Trailblazing Women in Climate List. Women’s contributions in combating climate change are increasingly recognized, alongside emerging youth activists. Collaboration and support are vital for a sustainable future.

March is International Women’s Month, a time to highlight the contributions of women striving for a healthier planet. The UN Environment Program (UNEP) has called for immediate climate action to address issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. The recent Emissions Gap Report 2024 stresses that countries must reduce emissions by 42 percent by 2030 to meet the Paris Agreement’s goals of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. \n\nUNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating, “Temperatures are rising, ecosystems are disappearing, and pollution remains a deadly threat. These are global problems that require global solutions.” This year, Andersen was recognized on the Reuters Events Trailblazing Women in Climate List, which celebrates significant figures from various sectors including policy and activism. \n\nJoining Andersen on the impactful list are influential leaders such as Mafalda Duarte from the Green Climate Fund and Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and awardee for human rights advocacy in relation to climate change. Other notable inclusions are Rhian-Mari Thomas from the UK’s Green Finance Institute, and Ayesha Choudhury who plays a pivotal role in low-carbon aviation fuel at Infinium. \n\nAndersen comments on the vital role of women in combating climate issues, noting, “Just as there is no debating that women are at the forefront of action, innovative solutions… Yet the gender inequality gap continues to slow progress when we have no time to waste.” This underscores the urgent need for gender equality in climate action. \n\nWomen activists continue to honor the legacy of figures like Wangari Maathai, who promoted environmental conservation alongside women’s rights. Emerging youth activists such as Sophia Kianni and Greta Thunberg, as well as Vanessa Nakate, are gaining global recognition for their climate initiatives. Leila Mcleod and other local young activists are also advocating for necessary climate financing and defending vulnerable ecosystems against detrimental practices. \n\nAmong local efforts, Javea Estavillo, at just 17 years old, represented the Philippines at COP28, focusing on vital climate financing needs. Activists Ann and Billie Dumaliang have co-founded Masungi Georeserve to protect their homeland from environmental degradation. \n\nIt is essential to support these women in their environmental pursuits, as they are shaping the future for generations to come. As stated by Andersen, “collaboration across borders and across our differences is the only option to protect the foundation of humanity’s existence — Planet Earth.”

In summary, International Women’s Month serves as a critical platform for recognizing the exceptional contributions of women in the fight against climate change. The call for urgent action by UNEP highlights the necessity of reducing emissions and addressing biodiversity and pollution issues. Women leaders are at the forefront of climate advocacy, inspiring a new generation of activists and addressing the intertwined issues of gender inequality and climate change. Support for these efforts is paramount for securing a sustainable future for upcoming generations.

Original Source: www.manilatimes.net