Environmental degradation and gender inequality are some of the biggest social justice issues of our day. Eco-feminism seeks to establish a connection between the exploitation of nature and the subordination and oppression of women. Eco-feminism is an ideology and a movement that sees climate change, gender equality and social injustice broadly as intrinsically related and tied to masculine dominance in society. Let’s talk about the principles of eco-feminism and why it matters now.
Eco-feminist concepts and principles
Oppositional dualism
Eco-feminism recognizes that the binaries we use to categorize everyone, and everything are purely social constructs. This is exemplified in the way men and women are considered not just different but opposites and the same applies to human beings and nature, or even black and white people when it comes to race. This false dichotomy entrenches exploitation and oppression not to mention the fact that it excludes things that don’t fall into those strict binaries like non-binary and transgender people.
Hierarchical thinking
Hierarchical thinking is a structure that assigns power to one side of the binary. Ecofeminism recognizes that the power dynamic of patriarchal structures supports the subjugation of women and nature as a whole, seeing one side as being more valuable. All exploitation and oppression is rooted in this hierarchical thinking that views one group as more valuable and more powerful than the other(s).
Other principles
- The oppression of nature and marginalized groups are connected by cause
- We must replace a culture of dominance with one of care
- All forms of oppression are unacceptable and interconnected
- Understanding these connections is necessary for equitable change
- The people most affected by environmental destruction must be the ones to lead the movement
Why eco-feminism matters now
Climate Change and environmental justice
Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and ecofeminism offers a unique perspective on the intersection of gender, race, and class with the environment. By recognizing that all exploitation is interconnected, ecofeminism offers a more holistic approach to addressing this looming catastrophe.
The way eco-feminism finds the interconnection between all forms of oppression and exploitation (including race, class and gender) is critical when it comes to addressing environmental justice. Already marginalized and exploited communities are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation and pollution. One report found that because women worldwide typically hold less wealth than men and are more likely to rely on the environment, they are more likely to be displaced by climate change and have to travel further for resources like water. Women are also more affected by radiation than men. Low-income countries that did little to contribute to climate change are also the most affected by environmental degradation which is the height of injustice.
Sustainability and valuing all life
Eco-feminism’s focus on sustainability and care can help us shift from a culture of consumerism towards one rooted in more equitable practices. This includes promoting renewable energy, reducing waste, and practising conversation efforts.
The concept of care also refers to the recognition of interdependence between all living things including non-human life. It focuses on being responsible for each other and the environment, and on protecting and preserving natural resources, ecosystems, and endangered species. This ethos encourages us to live in harmony with the environment, non-human life, and other people, valuing them all is crucial in the struggle for a more just, sustainable, and equitable world.
Check out
The Impact Of Drought On Women And Girls In Kenya
6 Biggest Climate Disasters In The World
5 Ways Climate Change Will Affect Our Lives
Environment: 8 Ways You Can Fight Climate Change And Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
How Climate Change And Gender Are Linked – Why Women Are Most Affected
