Climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation are dramatically reshaping the lives of women, girls, and their communities, increasingly putting at risk their food and personal security, their livelihoods, and health. On World Environment Day (5 June), UN Women calls on governments, partners, and communities to act with urgency on the interdependent issues of climate action and gender equality. Progress on one depends on progress on the other.
Those with the fewest resources are affected first and worst by intensified droughts or floods, failed crops, scarce or contaminated water, and other climate-related shocks. UN Women analysis shows that such shocks are associated with increased rates of child marriage, while rising temperatures are linked to higher risks of premature births and stillbirths.
Indigenous and rural women are often among the first to experience the consequences of environmental degradation, including in Small Island Developing States and countries affected by desertification. They are also resisting and counteracting negative change, leading ecosystem solutions, protecting land and water, and driving innovation, adaptation, and sustainable development. Women farmers are strengthening food security and building climate resilience. Women environmental human rights defenders are defying violence and intimidation to pursue their vital protective work.
This year presents a critical opportunity to turn global commitments into action. Discussions on climate change, biodiversity, and land restoration must deliver concrete progress for women and girls. Women's leadership, rights, and participation must be at the centre of environmental decision-making, backed by adequate financing and accountability.
The call to act #NowForClimate is also a call to advance gender equality and address the gender-based violence that too often accompanies environmental and climate-related crises. Climate action will be stronger, fairer, and more effective when women have equal and safe access to leadership, resources, land, finance, and opportunities.
There can be no climate justice without gender equality, and no lasting climate solution without the leadership of women and girls.
