COP27: Nordic Region wants a gender-equal climate transition
Young people’s demands for influence in climate policy decisions have been heard clearly on the streets in recent years. Awareness is now growing that gender equality and a diversity of other perspectives must also be safeguarded in the venues where decisions on the climate transition are being made.
“All policy has an equality aspect. We want to make this visible in the Nordic pavilion at the climate summit. The Nordic countries have fought for gender-equal and inclusive societies, and it’s time to integrate this in the green transition as well,” says Jonas Wendel, Deputy Secretary General of the Nordic Council of Ministers.
Gender-segregated industries a problem
Traffic planners, vehicle manufacturers, food producers, energy firms, fashion companies, and decision-makers in the health and social care sector all wield considerable power to influence climate change.
The fact that both women and men have influence in these industries can be decisive for the effectiveness of new climate solutions.
Lifestyle changes necessary
According to the UN climate panel, both lifestyle changes and new technology are needed for the world to reach the 1.5-degree target of the Paris Agreement.
Research shows that men are overrepresented in industries where technical climate solutions are being developed, but underrepresented in the health and social care sector.
At the same time, women are better equipped for lifestyle changes, which is linked to norms of social care that women tend to be schooled in.
Men’s transport emits more CO2
“Women are role models when it comes to changing the way we live in the Nordic Region. In Sweden, for example, men’s transport emits twice as much carbon dioxide as women’s. In every area of the fight against climate change, we can be inspired by and learn more about women’s lives,” says feminist and activist from Denmark Emma Holten who will take part in the debate Placing gender equality at the heart of green jobs on 14 November.
Co-operation with the African Union
Five events in the Nordic pavilion (P90) at the climate summit in Sharm el Sheik focus on how we create a just green transition.
The Nordic countries are also co-hosting an official side event for COP27 with the African Union, Nordic & African Leaders: Why gender is key to the green transition on 15 November.
Follow these events in person in Sharm el Sheik or online.
