Better climate outcomes need a gendered lens

When considering high-quality credits, corporate buyers should be motivated to prioritize projects that not only address climate change mitigation but also align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  In particular item 5 for Gender Equality.

We expect greater awareness around gender equality during 2025 as corporate buyers actively seek out and engage with gender-responsive projects. Gender-inclusive projects can mitigate emissions while promoting social and economic well-being. Such projects attract responsible investments, as buyers increasingly seek assurance that their credits support socially impactful initiatives.

The evidence is clear the direct and intentional inclusion of women and girls in climate and nature projects can deliver better climate outcomes, promote gender equality, and improve overall project sustainability.

Gender and the Voluntary Carbon Marketplace (VCM)

A recent report explains that gender has rightfully received more attention as a critical topic in the context of the voluntary carbon market (VCM). However, as the market grows, so does the need to ensure that it not only addresses environmental goals but also promotes social equity. Social safeguards – practices that ensure projects ‘Do No Harm’ and benefit the most vulnerable stakeholders – are now being recognized as essential to drive even more integrity across the VCM.

At Nature Wired we believe that gender equality is not only a fundamental human right but also crucial for a Just Transition to net zero, and key pillar of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In addition, the Integrity Council’s Core Carbon Principles (CCPs), gender equality is specifically outlined as a key criterion (7.8) under the Sustainable Development and Safeguards principle. This ensures CCP-eligible and CCP-approved credits uphold gender integrity, sending a clear signal to the market: gender equity practices are non-negotiable.

When selecting best in class credits through a gendered lens you might consider the following:

1. Are women actively engaged in decision-making within the project?

2. Is the project women-owned, women led, or employs a significant proportion of women?

3. Does the project prove intentionality of improving women’s livelihoods?

4. Does the project regularly monitor, verify, and report on positive impact and KPIs for women?

5. Does the project return a fair share of benefits to women in the community?

6. Does the project create opportunities within the supply chain to integrate climate with gender equality goals?

Gender matters because …

Women are disproportionately impacted by climate change, yet they are essential in climate mitigation and adaptation as they possess the knowledge and leadership skills needed to drive more effective and sustainable climate solutions. Forward thinking organizations recognize that integrating gender equity in the form of action that enable women to participate, benefit and lead will amplify both the effectiveness and social impact of projects.