How Women’s Empowerment Contributes to Climate Change and Natural Resource Management Outcomes

Abstract

This Rapid Evidence Review highlights how women's empowerment influences climate change mitigation and sustainable natural resource management. Key findings include: Political representation - Increased female participation in governance correlates with stricter climate policies and lower CO2 emissions; Social empowerment - Enhanced political status for women supports positive environmental outcomes such as reduced deforestation and emissions; Gender equality - Strong correlations exist between gender equality and lower CO2 emissions, along with better environmental performance overall; Education and resilience - Women's education is crucial in reducing vulnerability to natural disasters; Social protection programs and corporate leadership - These promote resilience and sustainable practices, especially when linked with environmental conditions; Sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) and land tenure - Both are effective in fostering environmental resilience and sustainable management. Water resource management: Women's involvement leads to more effective and sustainable water projects. The review also notes some limited evidence and emerging challenges in linking women's empowerment with broader environmental outcomes in areas like education's role in climate change, community management of natural resources, and green employment. The review emphasises the importance of integrating women's perspectives in environmental policies to harness these positive outcomes effectively.