New York– WEDO is very proud to announce the launch of a new book edited by our esteemed colleague and Acting Chair of the WEDO Board, Irene Dankleman, entitled “Gender and Climate Change: An Introduction.” Over 35 authors have contributed to this new text including WEDO staff members, Cate Owren, Eleanor Blomstrom, and Rachel Harris as well as WEDO Board Member, Lorena Aguilar.

This new textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to gender aspects of climate change.

It starts with a short history of the thinking and practice around gender and sustainable development over the past decades. Next it provides a theoretical framework for analyzing climate change manifestations and policies from the perspective of gender and human security. Drawing on new research, the actual and potential effects of climate change on gender equality and women’s vulnerabilities are examined, both in rural and urban contexts. This is illustrated with a rich range of case studies from all over the world and valuable lessons are drawn from these real experiences.

Too often women are primarily seen as victims of climate change, and their positive roles as agents of change and contributors to livelihood strategies are neglected. The book disputes this characterization and provides many examples of how women around the world organize and build resilience and adapt to climate change and the role they are playing in climate change mitigation. The final section looks at how far gender mainstreaming in climate mitigation and adaptation has advanced, the policy frameworks in place, and how we can move from policy to effective action.

Accompanied by a wide range of references and key resources, this book provides students and professionals with an essential, comprehensive introduction to the gender aspects of climate change.

Click here for information on how to purchase a copy.

Use this flyer to spread the word about this new essential reading on gender and climate change.