Women as Drivers of Forest-Based Climate Action

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Women as Drivers of Forest-Based Climate Action

Women are at the forefront of forest conservation and climate action, particularly in forest-dependent communities. Their traditional knowledge, daily interactions with forest ecosystems, and roles in managing natural resources make them crucial agents in tackling climate change through forest-based solutions.

Despite their significant contributions, women often lack formal recognition, land ownership rights, and participation in forest governance. This limits their ability to influence climate strategies and benefit from green initiatives. Empowering women and ensuring their leadership in climate-related forest programs is essential for both gender equality and environmental sustainability.

Women lead forest-based climate action in various ways:

• Restoration and Conservation: Women are key players in community-led afforestation, reforestation, and ecosystem restoration efforts.
• Sustainable Livelihoods: They engage in sustainable forest enterprises, such as non-timber forest product (NTFP) harvesting, eco-tourism, and agroforestry.
• Climate Resilience: Women help build community resilience by promoting diversified livelihoods and climate-smart agriculture.
• Knowledge and Advocacy: Women carry generations of ecological knowledge and often act as community educators and advocates for sustainable practices.

Integrating women into climate policies and programs strengthens outcomes and accelerates progress toward climate goals like those outlined in the Paris Agreement and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Investing in women’s leadership is not only a matter of justice—it is a strategy for more effective and enduring climate solutions.

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