Gender and Climate Change

Does gender matter in global climate change? This timely and provocative book takes readers on a guided tour of basic climate science, then holds up a gender lens to find out what has been overlooked in popular discussion, research, and policy debates. We see that, around the world, more women than men die in climate-related natural disasters; the history of science and war are intimately interwoven masculine occupations and preoccupations; and conservative men and their interests drive the climate change denial machine. We also see that climate policymakers who embrace big science approaches and solutions to climate change are predominantly male with an ideology of perpetual economic growth, and an agenda that marginalizes the interests of women and developing economies. The book uses vivid case studies to highlight the often surprising, gendered impacts of climate changes.

This new edition is a thorough update that includes revised and new chapters and new material that takes account of the significant advances in climate research, environmental and social theory, and the many political and social challenges posed in the wake of US elections, Covid-19 pandemic, and rapidly changing climate and environment. The new edition also takes account of important social and cultural movements that resist challenges to women’s rights and advocate for gender, sexuality, and racial justice.

This book will appeal to students, researchers, and academicians interested in environmental studies and gender studies. It also will be of interest to policymakers, activists, and others involved with environmental policy and governance.