Empowering Change: The Crucial Role of Women in Environmental Protection

On International Women’s Day, it’s important to highlight women’s vital role in protecting our environment. While we often celebrate their achievements in other areas, their contributions to sustainability are truly remarkable yet frequently overlooked.

In India, women represent 14% of entrepreneurs, according to the latest Economic Census. This number is growing, showing their impact on economic growth and job creation. More than just business, many women are becoming champions for the planet.

Take Padma Shri winners like Chami Murmu, who planted 3 million trees in Jharkhand, and Almitra Patel, who fights against pollution. Rahibai Popere, known as the Seed Mother, runs a local seed bank for farmers, and Lakhimi Baruah empowers women in Assam financially. Their stories demonstrate how committed women are to environmental conservation. In the 1970s, women led the Chipko movement to protect trees, setting a strong tradition of environmental activism.

Today, rural women in India are at the forefront of social and environmental reforms. Approximately 80% of rural women work in agriculture, and they practice sustainable methods like water harvesting and tree planting. These practices greatly benefit the environment.

Globally, movements like Poder y Luz Maya, founded by Monika Noeline Goforth and Marilena Choguaj in Central America, tackle issues like electricity access and poverty through sustainable energy. Inspired by their efforts, many women in India are adopting renewable energy solutions, turning local communities into models of sustainability.

Women also contribute to biodiversity and traditional farming practices that help local economies. Their leadership is crucial for driving effective environmental change. Recognizing this, the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) launched the WiS initiative in 2017 to boost women’s involvement in sustainability discussions.

Women are key players in addressing challenges like climate change and resource scarcity. Studies show that countries with more women in leadership tend to adopt stricter environmental policies. Moreover, businesses with diverse workforces often invest more in sustainability.

Finally, women’s unique perspectives as caregivers and community leaders are essential for creating lasting solutions to environmental issues. When more women participate in planning and disaster management, society becomes better equipped to tackle environmental crises.