Abstract

Big cities don’t have to mean a dystopian future. They can be turned around to be powerhouses of well-being and environmental sustainability – if we empower women.

This book is a unique collaboration between C40 and Friends of the Earth showcasing pioneering city mayors, key voices in the environmental and feminist movements, and academics. The essays collectively demonstrate both the need for women’s empowerment for climate action and the powerful change it can bring. A rallying call – for the planet, for women, for everyone.

'An inspiring call to action'
Liz Hutchins, Campaigns Director, Friends of the Earth

‘As we look to address the greatest challenge humankind has ever faced, we do so with one of the greatest possible resources: womankind… Empowering the next generation of women leaders is a concrete step towards securing a bright, sustainable future for all. Through this book, we are seeking to share the wisdom of a pioneering generation of women leaders with the leaders to come.’
Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of Paris, from the Foreword

‘If women are given equal opportunities to contribute to the global condition we will be able to create a safer, more just and more prosperous world. Universal wellbeing created by universal participation.’
Christiana Figueres, Architect of the Paris Climate Agreement

‘Climate action offers the opportunity to transform social and economic development for the better. We must take this opportunity to elevate women and girls as equals in a stable and sustainable society marked by lasting peace and prosperity. That is how women will save the planet.’
Patricia Espinosa, Executive Secretary, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

‘You can’t save the planet without equality … We need a new economics informed by the larger picture, an economy that puts women and the Earth at the centre.'
Vandana Shiva

‘Hope is a potent catalyst. And while our failure to adequately appreciate and guard against ecological destruction fills me with frustration, my hope is not meek or weak. It is urgent and raging. It’s a hope that believes a better world – away from cyclical war, the annihilation of the earth’s treasures and the grinding down of the poor – is possible.’
Caroline Lucas MP

'Provides a depth and breadth of diverse perspectives to answer yes to the question: "Could women’s empowerment transform the chances of achieving environmental sustainability?".'
Local Environment

Praise for the First Edition:

'A wake-up call for the environmental movement'
Craig Bennett, CEO of Friends of the Earth

'…this book is relevant to a wide audience (arguably everyone): to inform our understanding of discrimination against women, and to provide inspiring insight and encouragement into opportunities for achieving not only gender equality but environmental sustainability too.'
Environment and Urbanization

For more than forty years, Friends of the Earth has seen that the well-being of people and planet go hand in hand. Together with thousands of people they have secured safer food and water, defended wildlife and natural habitats, championed the move to clean energy and acted to keep our climate stable.

C40 Cities connects more than ninety of the world’s greatest cities, representing over 650 million people. C40 is focused on tackling climate change and driving urban action that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks, while increasing the health, wellbeing and economic opportunities of urban citizens.