“Women STEM Leaders” Can Reform, Reinforce, and Rekindle Climate Action

Abstract

Global warming has an impact on human beings in varying degrees across regions, generations, ages, classes, income groups, and gender. As per UN, half of the world's population is women and girls, yet they are often left out of the conversation when it comes to climate change. Women often face higher risks and greater burdens from the climate change impacts stemming from inadequate policies and strategies for progress. The pursuit of sustainable development cannot be effectively undertaken without the full and equal participation of women at all levels of decision-making and policy development. Moreover, women often prioritize social issues, including education, health, social justice, peace, and security, which are key elements for holistic sustainable development. Bringing more women into STEM education and engaging them into leadership roles is ‘vital' for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reducing carbon footprint. The future of environmentally sustainable development and combating greenhouse gases relies on propelling, empowering, increasing, and encouraging more women into “STEM Education” and “STEM Leadership” roles. Research across the world suggests that female leaders are more likely to support sustainability and climate action. Women are more vulnerable and often face higher risks and greater burdens from the impacts of climate change around the world. STEM women will be more scientifically equipped with knowledge in understanding the environmental sustainability process and accomplishing green development. The chapter discusses and explores the importance of educating more women about STEM, bringing them to leadership, and their roles and accomplishments in environmental sustainability.