Intersecting Forces: Feminism and Environmentalism

_{Image Credit: Dejusticia}

Mary Robinson, the first female president of Ireland and an advocate for gender equality and climate justice, asserts that feminism offers a solution to the man-made problem of climate change. Ecofeminism, a movement that emerged from the intersection of feminism and ecology, posits that environmental degradation and gender inequality are interconnected. The patriarchal-capitalist power structure, characterized by hierarchical social orders and the pursuit of wealth at the expense of others, underlies both forms of oppression. Ecofeminists argue that feminism and environmentalism are intertwined, with advancements or setbacks in one sphere affecting the other.

Climate change disproportionately affects women, particularly those in developing countries, indigenous communities, and marginalized groups. The United Nations Development Programme highlights the adverse impacts on agriculture and food security, exacerbating poverty and limiting women’s access to resources and opportunities. Women also face greater health risks and vulnerability to sexual violence during extreme climate events. By including women in climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, the effectiveness of these measures can be enhanced, as demonstrated in relief programs following earthquakes in India.

However, women are underrepresented in scientific and decision-making bodies related to climate change. The inclusion of women’s voices, experiences, and knowledge is crucial for the development of holistic and sustainable climate policies. The coordination between feminism and environmentalism is vital for addressing the challenges posed by climate change and promoting gender equality.

The current historic moments marked by movements like #MeToo and global student strikes for climate action present opportunities for collective and effective resistance against oppressive systems. Adopting an ecofeminist perspective can serve as a strategic catalyst in dismantling outdated structures of oppression and fostering a more sustainable and equitable society. Through mutual support and coordination, feminism and environmentalism can forge a powerful alliance to confront the pressing issues of our time.

Re-reported from the story originally published in Dejusticia