Climate change and women – impacts and adaptation

Abstract

This paper reviews literature on climate change impacts and adaptation in developing countries with a focus on women, their role in households, production and economic growth. Climate change impacts are a phenomenon channeled initially via the influence of changed climatic conditions on natural resources and their productivity. The consequences from these environmental shocks affect the whole economy and particularly vulnerable socioeconomic groups such as women. Implementing adaptation measures requires an understanding of the climate change impacts on women in households, production and economic growth. The review indicates that climate change impacts are complex and highly dependent on region and socioeconomic circumstances. Overall, women from developing countries are more vulnerable to climate change impacts than men and are, at the same time, less able to adapt to its effects, particularly in the agricultural sector. Further, the review suggests that since climate impacts affect growth, counteracting the effects of climate change on women has the potential to support growth. The compilation of findings from the reviewed studies assists by providing an overview on the current state of problems and the particular socioeconomic conditions at play.