A Review on Women, Climate Change and Clean Development Mechanism

Abstract

Women are very vulnerable, and are most likely to be disproportionately affected by the adverse impacts of climate change because they constitute the majority of the disadvantaged worldwide.  Cultural norms, inequitable distribution of roles, resources, and power, especially in developing countries makes women more vulnerable than men. They are also the agents of change in relation to both mitigation and adaptation measures any government, development agencies or the civil society is embarking upon as they manage energy resources more efficiently. Empowering women, addressing their needs in project implementation is critical to managing climate change and creating a sustainable future. This paper reviews the Clean Development Mechanism activities in relation to women in sub Saharan Africa and how best its objectives can impact significantly on the lives of women in terms of access to affordable, efficient and sustainable forms of energy which leads to poverty alleviation and sustainable development.

Keywords: Clean Development Mechanism; Climate Change; Greenhouse Gas; Millennium Development Goal; Emission Reductions; Sustainable development