5 tips for gender-equal and inclusive energy and climate projects
Gender equality and inclusion are essential for the success of any development project, including those focused on improving energy access and addressing climate change. How can you incorporate them into your work? I am Sacha Slootheer, Programme Advisor for Gender Equality and MEL (Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning) in RVO's Climate and Energy Team. In this blog, I will share my advice and tips.
It is essential to consider the needs of women and socially excluded groups, like young people or people living in challenging situations, in project planning. Why does this matter? Involving and supporting these groups at all levels, whether as users, entrepreneurs or policymakers, improves the effectiveness of projects. They usually have more impact and last longer. Without this focus, projects may overlook crucial opportunities and risk accidentally excluding or harming these groups.
Examples from clean cooking projects
The significant role of women in energy and climate projects is evident when promoting clean cooking solutions. For example, in many countries, women are primarily responsible for cooking duties due to traditional gender roles. They lose a lot of time and face risks of gender-based violence when gathering fuel. Also, they endure health hazards from indoor air pollution and smoke generated by cooking with open fires or inefficient stoves.
Women have specific needs and habits that impact how they access and use clean cooking solutions. Decisions made within the household about buying cooking devices also affect their experiences. I believe it is essential to understand the realities women encounter and involve men in cooking and related discussions. Otherwise, the adoption and growth of clean cooking solutions will be limited.
Different points of view
Entrepreneurs, NGOs and research institutes often work with us on matters of gender equality and inclusion. Their questions come from different points of view. Some question whether this approach is really needed or worry it may distract attention away from the project's main goals. They may be unsure about how to include it in their work. Others take the issue seriously and aim to do even more. These leaders are convinced that promoting equality and inclusion is essential for achieving climate and energy goals.
Whatever your point of view may be, there are ways to move forward.
5 tips to include gender equality and social inclusion in your project
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Adapt your approach to the local situation
Every situation is different, every location is different. Understand the needs of the people you support so you can tailor your approach to them. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. This is especially true for gender equality and social inclusion. They depend on the local social and economic context.
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Involve and empower your target groups
Women and other marginalised groups are not passive receivers of support. They are decision-makers, active consumers, driven entrepreneurs and change-makers. Seeing them this way and adapting your approach accordingly can lead to significant positive changes.
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Make it a team effort
Applying gender equality and inclusion should be a team effort. Avoid treating it as a separate issue that only one person is responsible for. Ensure there is enough budget for these initiatives and integrate them into your overall work.
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Think beyond the project's timeline
It takes time for the effects of gender-transformative approaches to become visible. So take this into account in your business plan. Reflect on how you will monitor changes, make adjustments and ensure results continue after the project ends.
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Learn from others; there is no need to start from the beginning
Find inspiration from those working on gender equality and inclusion, even in different sectors. Try implementing their ideas, document your results and share your lessons learnt with others.
Would you like to learn more?
Our team supports access to energy and climate diplomacy in low and middle-income countries. Visit these pages for more ideas on including gender in your project:
For more information or to speak with an advisor, please contact us.
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
