Accès ouvert

Tackling Climate Change Impacts from a Gendered Perspective in South Africa

Article scientifique 2025 Anglais

Résumé

Impacts of climate change disproportionately affect women due to their biological differences and gender roles prevalent within societal and familial structures. As a result, climate change amplifies the existing gender inequalities present in South African communities. This document-based research provides a comprehensive overview of the legal frameworks governing climate change in South Africa, with a focus on their responsiveness to the gendered impacts of climate change. It proffers a unique comparative approach to how women are affected differently from men by climate change impacts in the context of South Africa, a country that, because of its geographical location and other factors, is one of the most affected by climate change in Africa. The main legislation that addresses climate change in South Africa is the Climate Change Act of 2024. This Act aims to uphold environmental rights for all citizens. Although it incorporates gender perspectives on the impacts of climate change, it fails to provide comprehensive protection for women against these impacts. Impacts of climate change discussed in this paper include displacement, water scarcity, inadequate sanitation, health risks, gender-based violence, food insecurity, and reduced income levels. The study recommended that South Africa prioritise environmental rights education for women and girls, gendered climate change-related budgets, public awareness of developmental opportunities arising from climate change, the development of improved renewable energy sources, and the banning of plastics. Keywords: Climate Change, Women, South Africa and Gender.

Citer ce document

Vengesai, P. (2025). Tackling Climate Change Impacts from a Gendered Perspective in South Africa. https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.2025695

Accès au document

Texte intégral en lecture en ligne, réservé aux abonnés SPHAERO et aux membres de l'institution. Se connecter

Voir l'article sur le site de la revue

Auteur(s)

Statistiques

Consultations : 1

Téléchargements : 0