The benefits of gender balance in climate change mitigation investments and sustainable energy initiatives

Cleaner fuels, improved efficiency and adoption of renewable energy technologies offer important possibilities for low carbon economic development and reductions in overall greenhouse gas emissions. This paper highlights that these possibilities are especially important for women in developing countries who currently play critical roles in supplying and managing traditional biomass fuels. Moreover, climate-related financing holds significant promise for promoting greater access to energy in under -served areas in developing countries, thereby also supporting economic and social empowerment of women. This paper outlines practical information about gender-aware policies, procedures and tools that can make energy and climate change mitigation activities and investments more successful and effective, as well as provide greater benefits for both men and women. It also presents brief descriptions of successful gender mainstreaming activities in the energy sector.