Women solving the climate crisis

Over the recent weeks, there is no denying that the intense heat has impacted people’s daily lives significantly. This includes changes in mood, health, noticeable spikes in utility bills, such as electricity and water, more frequent visits to malls and restaurants to seek relief in a cooler environment, and even opting to drive short distances instead of walking. Extreme weather plays a crucial role in influencing our choices, especially for women, who often handle multiple tasks throughout the day.

Climate change is a global crisis that affects everyone, but its impact is not evenly distributed. Women, particularly in developing countries like those who reside in the Asean region, are disproportionately affected by the adverse effects of climate change. The Philippines is not spared in this regard highlighting the urgent need for gender-responsive policies and initiatives to empower women and build resilience in the face of this continuing environmental issue.

Impact of climate change on women in the Philippines and Asean. Filipino women as well as women in Asean countries are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change due to existing social and economic inequalities. In many communities, women are responsible for tasks such as mothers juggling jobs, breadwinners caring for family members and the household, all of which become more challenging in the face of extreme weather events, natural disasters, and environmental degradation.

According to a report by the United Nations Development Programme, women and children are 14 times more likely to die in natural disasters than men, highlighting the gender disparities in disaster risk reduction and response. Moreover, climate change exacerbates existing challenges faced by women, such as limited access to resources, economic opportunities, and decision-making power. It is not just a human rights issue, failing to address it also undermines hard-fought development gains.

It is no news that the Philippines ranks high in terms of vulnerability to climate change impacts. We are one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, facing frequent typhoons, floods, earthquakes, and landslides, and these disasters have a significant impact on women and children, particularly in rural areas where they are more vulnerable due to limited access to resources, connectivity, and therefore, information.

Policy initiatives for empowering women in the Philippines. To address the intersection of gender inequality and climate change, the Philippine government can implement various policy initiatives to empower women and build resilience in communities. Some key strategies include:

Policies for gender-inclusive climate adaptation and mitigation. To address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of women (and children), the government can integrate gender perspectives into strategies for adapting to and mitigating climate change. At the sidelines of the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, then Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno emphasized the importance of recognizing the distinct needs and opportunities of women and men in climate action. He highlighted the significance of collecting sex-disaggregated data to identify and address underlying inequalities that exacerbate vulnerability. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure the fair, active, and meaningful participation of both genders in decision-making processes, program implementation, and impact assessment related to climate change. Lastly, efforts should be made to provide women with gender-equitable access to the advantages of climate finance and programs.

Capacity building and education. Investing in women’s education and skills training in climate-resilient livelihoods can enhance their adaptive capacity and empower them to participate in decision-making processes related to climate change.

Access to finances and resources. Ensuring women’s access to financial resources, technology/information, and markets can help them adapt to climate change impacts and build sustainable livelihoods, especially in rural areas.

Community-based approaches. Promoting community-based approaches that engage women in climate change adaptation initiatives can enhance their resilience and strengthen local responses to climate-related disasters.

By implementing these policy initiatives and empowering women, the Philippines can enhance its climate resilience and contribute to sustainable development in the Asean region. Governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector need to work together to address the gender dimensions of this global issue and ensure that women are key actors in building a more sustainable and resilient future for all.

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Ana Bobadilla is secretariat of the Philippine Women’s Economic Network (PhilWEN) and the partnerships manager of the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment. She is a women/youth empowerment, environment, and diversity, equity, and inclusion advocate.

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Women Who Lead is an initiative of PhilWEN.