Women and the Energy Transition

Lead a discussion about why historically women’s contributions to the energy transition have often been overlooked, and get students thinking about how to elevate women’s voices in the environmental arena in modern times. Students can discuss how women can promote renewable energy through community projects or promote gender equality in policy making. They can also consider how modern environmental policies can improve the lives of women, especially in developing countries, and how women can take a leadership role in the energy transition.

Example: In some African countries, women have led the promotion of solar lighting and kitchen appliances, which not only reduces dependence on traditional fuels, but also improves their quality of life and health. Similarly, Wangari Maathai’s Green Belt Movement in Kenya is a successful female-led environmental movement.
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These specific examples and questions will help students to relate historical figures in the environmental movement to current social and environmental issues and encourage them to come up with their own opinions.