The report "Gender Equality for a Low-Carbon Future: Practice Observations on Business Empowerment of Women in Tackling Climate Change (2024)", prepared by the China Sustainability Tribune, was officially released during the "Women in Sustainable Development" side event at COP29.

Women as Both Vulnerable Groups and Change Agents

The report highlights that women—who comprise 70% of the global poor and are more reliant on natural resources—face disproportionate climate risks, including: higher agricultural income loss due to droughts/floods and 15% greater mortality risk during climate disasters. Yet, women are also pivotal in driving solutions, excelling in: sustainable farming (e.g., crop diversification), community-based disaster preparedness and green consumption behavioral shifts.

Despite their critical role, women remain underrepresented in climate decision-making: only 25% of green jobs are held by women globally;and just 28.8% of climate-related research roles are female.

This gap leads to policies that may unintentionally widen inequalities, such as energy transition programs overlooking women’s specific needs.

A 3-Pronged Framework for Gender-Responsive Climate Action

The report proposes to a 3-pronged framework:

1. Gender-Sensitive Climate Programs: Tailored solutions like drought-resistant crop training for female farmers
2. Women’s Participation in the Green Economy: Skills development, and financial inclusion programs to remove the employment barriers
3. Advancing Women’s Leadership: Boosting boardroom diversity (Firms with ≥30% female directors show 20% higher green patent filings)

Spotlight: Corporate Pioneers

To showcase pioneering experiences and inspire more enterprises, this report highlights outstanding gender-equal climate action cases from various companies/institutions. As a representative of State Grid Corporation of China, Wuxi Power Supply Company promoted women's technological innovation through its Female Employees Committee, while the Hangzhou branch team achieved breakthroughs in building energy efficiency.

Looking ahead, enterprises should better integrate gender perspectives into climate action to ensure all stakeholders' voices are heard. Gender equality isn’t just ethical—it’s strategic. By establishing gender-sensitive climate policies, enhancing women's leadership, and promoting diversity, companies can accelerate their own and society's green low-carbon transition.

The full report (bilingual version) is available at:

https://sdg-china.net/uploadfiles/2024/11/20241110084341819.pdf