Empowering Women, Protecting the Planet
Source: UNDP
This April 22nd marks International Mother Earth Day with the slogan “Our Power, Our Planet”, which calls for us to rethink our role in ensuring that the use of our resources has a positive impact on both humans and ecosystems. Latin America and the Caribbean, the richest region in terms of flora and fauna, is also one of the most challenged by extreme weather events such as intense droughts, devastating hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains, floods, severe heat waves and catastrophic forest fires.
Women in the region, key environmental custodians due to their relationship with the environment and their role in the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources, are disproportionately affected by climate change, disasters, inequalities, and violence. Additionally, they tend to bear most of the burden of unpaid domestic work in their households, are underrepresented in decision-making, and have less access to resources and education. The relationship between gender inequalities and environmental degradation requires transformative and inclusive development. UNDP recognizes that gender equality is essential for effective and sustainable climate action and supports projects that protect biodiversity, boost the use of renewable energy, and empower women as community leaders.
On Earth Day, we share UNDP-supported initiatives that are making a tangible difference in these areas, highlighting the intersection of gender equality, renewable energy, and environmental and biodiversity conservation for a sustainable and equitable Latin America and the Caribbean.
Read here the full article published by UNDP on 23 April 2025.

This April 22nd marks International Mother Earth Day with the slogan “Our Power, Our Planet”, which calls for us to rethink our role in ensuring that the use of our resources has a positive impact on both humans and ecosystems. Latin America and the Caribbean, the richest region in terms of flora and fauna, is also one of the most challenged by extreme weather events such as intense droughts, devastating hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains, floods, severe heat waves and catastrophic forest fires.
Women in the region, key environmental custodians due to their relationship with the environment and their role in the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources, are disproportionately affected by climate change, disasters, inequalities, and violence. Additionally, they tend to bear most of the burden of unpaid domestic work in their households, are underrepresented in decision-making, and have less access to resources and education. The relationship between gender inequalities and environmental degradation requires transformative and inclusive development. UNDP recognizes that gender equality is essential for effective and sustainable climate action and supports projects that protect biodiversity, boost the use of renewable energy, and empower women as community leaders.
On Earth Day, we share UNDP-supported initiatives that are making a tangible difference in these areas, highlighting the intersection of gender equality, renewable energy, and environmental and biodiversity conservation for a sustainable and equitable Latin America and the Caribbean.
Read here the full article published by UNDP on 23 April 2025.