Context
Recently, a study published by McAllister study has highlighted how there could be 1.2 billion climate refugees by 2050. This article discusses the role played by women in climate action and the need to invest in education and training.
As gender equality and environmental goals are intertwined, addressing both issues concurrently can help to speed the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
 
Key Facts 
·         According to a 2019 International Labour Organisation research, "high temperatures will cost the world 2.2 percent of total working hours in 2030, equivalent to 80 million full-time jobs."
·         The United Nations (2009) stated that, across genders, women are believed to be more vulnerable and disproportionately affected by climate change than males.
·         The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, 2021 said, Gender equality and environmental goals are mutually reinforcing, forming a virtuous circle that will aid in the acceleration of SDG achievement.
  
Disproportionate Impact on Women
·         Climate Change Effects: The effects of climate change differ depending on region, socioeconomic position, and gender.
·         Productivity Loss and Vulnerability: According to an International Labour Organisation study, high temperatures will cause a large loss of working hours, lowering productivity globally. It should be mentioned that women are regarded very vulnerable to climate change and are disproportionately affected by it.
·         Women's Vulnerability in Developing Countries: Women in low-income nations, particularly those in rural areas, are especially vulnerable to climate change because they rely on natural resources and labour-intensive employment for a living.
  
Gender-Specific Difficulties
·         Women endure an unfair burden in terms of getting basic essentials such as clean water and fuel.
·         Women in low-income nations are more likely to work in climate-vulnerable occupations such as agriculture, where they are frequently underpaid and overworked. Despite their importance in food production, women control a small fraction of farms.
·         Gender-Specific Issues and Displacement: When natural disasters strike, the bulk of those displaced are women and girls. They are subject to racism, exploitation, gender-based violence, and limited access to key services as a result of their displacement.

Women's Empowerment for Climate Resilience  
·         Exacerbating Gender Inequality: Climate change exacerbates poverty and vulnerability among women, with 130 million people potentially falling into poverty by 2050.
·         Investing in Women's Education and Training: Investing in women's education, training, and access to resources is critical for building resilience to climate change. Improving their knowledge and implementing sustainable practises can help to lessen the negative effects.
·         Gender-Inclusive Climate Policy: Active participation of women in climate policy decision-making is critical. Gender equality in decision-making bodies is critical for successful climate change mitigation and adaptation methods. Initiatives such as the Gender and Climate Change Development Programme seek to increase the prominence of women's voices in policymaking.

Conclusion  
Gender-responsive measures to reducing the impact of climate change on women, particularly those in low-income countries, are urgently needed. The intersection of gender equality, climate change, and sustainable development emphasises this. To accomplish sustainable development goals and increase resilience to climate change, women must be empowered through education, training, and active involvement in climate policy decision-making.

LTX Mains Question
Q. Discuss the disproportionate impact of climate change on women, particularly in low-income nations, as well as the consequences. How can investment in women's education, training, and engagement in climate policy decision-making help to ensure climate resilience and long-term development?