Women As Architects Of Change: Empowering The Climate Revolution

When we speak of nature's nurturing force, we think of 'Mother Nature'—an inherent association that underscores the pivotal role women can play in combating the climate crisis. From nurturing minds to shaping policies, women hold multifaceted power in steering our collective journey toward a sustainable future.

A 2017 survey by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication revealed that women are more likely to agree with climate scientists believe that climate change will be harmful, and be concerned about climate change than men are.

Motherhood and Early Education 

Mothers as child bearers act as early educators, instilling values in the next generation. A report by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health indicated that children whose mothers actively communicated environmental concerns showed greater eco-consciousness. Empowering mothers with knowledge about sustainability cultivates lifelong habits in children, driving a sustainable mindset from an early age. Educating just one mother can influence her entire family and community, creating a ripple effect of climate-conscious actions.

Women as Home Managers and Decision Makers 

Over 70% of global household consumption decisions are influenced by women. By adopting energy-efficient practices, sustainable consumption patterns, and reducing and sorting waste, women impact household emissions and steer towards a greener lifestyle. Research indicated that in most industrialized nations, women are more likely to recycle, buy organic food and sustainable products and support energy efficiency measures. Encouraging women to lead efforts in reducing meat consumption at home can significantly impact household emissions, further translating into them educating their household members why this is essential, and finding new recipes to replace old favourites that favour ingredients with high environmental impact. 

Leadership in the Sustainable Revolution

Leadership knows no gender, and the story of women, like myself, leading the charge in the renewable energy sector exemplifies this. As seen in diverse industries, women bring unique perspectives, fostering innovation, and spearheading transformative change.

My personal journey in the renewable energy landscape stands as a testament to women and our capabilities of perseverance and grit in driving a sustainable business. A 2022 EIB (European Investment Bank) study shows that women-led firms make more stringent efforts to reduce workplace emissions while complying more strongly with ESG indicators. It was also found that women-led firms boast higher ESG scores, more renewable energy investments and lower investments in polluting parties.

Catalysts for Collective Action

Women and girls constitute half of the global population, making their collective action an instrumental force in climate advocacy. Through community engagement, grassroots movements, and collective initiatives, women amplify their voices, effecting meaningful change at local and global levels. This collective power transcends boundaries and mobilizes communities towards sustainable action.

Influence in Governance and Policy 

Nations with increased women representation in government demonstrate stronger commitments to environmental protection. Studies show us that where women hold higher social and political status, their countries show 12% lower CO2 emissions, as they adopt and update climate change policy faster, and more often than their male counterparts.  For example, after winning re-election, New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and her 40% women cabinet declared a "Climate Emergency." They set in motion a plan to make the country’s public sector carbon neutral by 2025. Research indicates that gender-balanced decision-making bodies tend to prioritize sustainability, passing more stringent environmental policies. Women policymakers bring unique perspectives, advocating for comprehensive climate strategies and resilient policies. 

Impactful Voices in Activism 

Women activists like Greta Thunberg exemplify the power of impactful voices in climate advocacy. Their influence transcends generations, rallying global attention to urgent environmental concerns. Women activists often spearhead movements that ignite societal consciousness and inspire global action, shaping the narrative on climate urgency.

The Mother’s Instinct for a Better Tomorrow 

At the heart of it all lies the innate mother’s instinct—a universal desire to leave a better world for future generations. This instinct transcends individual households, uniting women worldwide in the collective pursuit of a sustainable planet.

The climate crisis demands collective action, and women stand as catalysts for transformative change. By leveraging their influence as educators, decision-makers, leaders, activists, and nurturers, women hold the key to forging a sustainable path forward. Let us celebrate and empower the role of women as architects of change in shaping a greener, more sustainable future for all. Now is the time to invest in women – the true climate warriors. 

Authored by Tanya Singhal, Founder of Mynzo Carbon & SolarArise.