The effects of climate change aren’t uniform. They hit women and marginalized communities hardest. This insight comes from the National Women’s Council (NWC) in response to findings from UN Special Rapporteur Astrid Puentes Riaño about Ireland’s environmental policies.
The NWC emphasizes that we must engage with women and marginalized groups, like low-income families, Travellers, and migrants, when developing climate strategies. These groups face unique challenges that need to be addressed.
Take energy poverty, for example. Lone-parent families led by women often struggle the most. A staggering 35% gender pension gap leaves older women vulnerable to housing instability during harsh winters. Moreover, air pollution—responsible for around 1,700 deaths annually—can lead to severe pregnancy complications. Worryingly, levels of air pollution outside Dublin’s maternity hospitals consistently exceed WHO recommendations.
Corrinne Hasson, Executive Director of NWC, noted, “Climate change affects women differently, yet gender is often overlooked in Ireland’s climate policies. Recent flooding has shown how unprepared we are. Women face greater challenges in recovering from such disasters, making it vital for them to be part of the climate solution.” The NWC urges the government to involve women more in climate planning, particularly in the upcoming Social Climate Plan.
Environmental issues also disproportionately impact groups like the Traveller community. Many of their halting sites lack basic facilities like clean water and sewage. This leads to higher rates of energy poverty and health problems linked to inadequate access to green spaces. Studies show a direct relation between the lack of green areas and poor mental and physical health, particularly in deprived neighborhoods.
Vanessa Conroy from NWC pointed out that while climate change impacts various communities, the voices of Travellers are rarely heard in climate policies. “It’s crucial for the government to consider these communities when formulating climate strategies,” she said. Moreover, Ireland’s mental health policy overlooks the specific mental health consequences of climate change for these vulnerable groups.
As the climate crisis worsens, attention to gender and community needs has never been more important. Both local and international experts emphasize the need to include diverse voices in conversations about environmental sustainability. Failure to do so not only deepens existing inequalities but also hinders our collective fight against climate change.
In summary, integrating gender equality into climate planning can lead to more effective and just environmental policies. Our approach should reflect the complexities of these challenges, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
For more insights on the intersection of gender and climate resilience, the [National Women’s Council](https://www.nwci.ie/) offers valuable resources.
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NWCI, women, equality, Ireland
