Climate change is likely to exacerbate inequalities, especially for women in poor countries who directly depend on the natural environment, says an opinion piece in Inter Press Service News.

Susan McDade, Deputy Director for Latin America and the Caribbean with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) writes that empowered women are one of the most effective responses to climate change.

The article provides an example from Mexico where indigenous women are driving sustainable development. Through the Koolel-Kab/Muuchkambal organic farming and agroforestry initiative, Mayan women are restoring forests, promoting indigenous land rights and developing community-level disaster risk reduction strategies. They have developed alternatives to input-intensive commercial agriculture and illegal logging.

“The success of climate change actions depend on elevating women’s voices, making sure their experiences and views are heard at decision-making tables and supporting them to become leaders in climate adaptation,” says McDade.

The impacts of climate change, such as drought, uncertain rainfall and deforestation, create an additional burden for women who are responsible for supplying water and firewood and growing food.

Women’s knowledge and experience in dealing with environmental challenges also makes them key actors for driving sustainable development, says McDade. She urges world leaders at the UN climate change talks in Lima, Peru to take into account gender issues within environment and climate change responses in order to reduce inequalities and make sustainable development possible.

Read the full story: OPINION: Climate Change and Inequalities: How Will They Impact Women?