Gendered Impacts of Climate Change Adaptation Policies Coastal Communities

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess gendered impacts of climate change adaptation policies coastal communities.

Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.

Findings: The study indicated that women and men experience climate change impacts differently due to existing societal norms and roles. In many coastal areas, women often have distinct responsibilities related to household management, food security, and caregiving, making them particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Adaptation policies often fail to adequately consider these gender dynamics, leading to unequal distribution of resources and opportunities for women. Additionally, traditional gender roles may limit women's participation in decision-making processes related to adaptation strategies, further exacerbating their vulnerability. Efforts to address gender disparities in climate adaptation policies are crucial for promoting resilience and sustainability in coastal communities.

Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Feminist political ecology, environmental justice and social capital theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing gendered impacts of climate change adaptation policies coastal communities. Implement capacity-building initiatives to raise awareness among policymakers, practitioners, and community members about the gendered dimensions of climate change adaptation. Advocate for the development and implementation of gender-responsive climate change adaptation policies at the local, national, and European Union levels.