Designed by Freepik
In the global movement towards environmental sustainability and climate action, the gender gap in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) has emerged as a significant hurdle. The underrepresentation of women in ASM is not only a matter of equality but also a crucial factor in our ability to address the climate crisis and environmental degradation.
From the grassroots level to high-level policy-making, the gender disparity in ASM is delaying efforts to combat climate change and environmental degradation, denying women the opportunity to leverage their unique relationship with the environment for positive change.
About one-third of the workers in artisanal and small-scale mining are women. This type of mining provides important minerals for modern technologies and the global shift towards cleaner energy. A recent report by the World Bank found that women in this industry face gender discrimination due to mining laws that do not fully represent their concerns and they often do not receive proper health, safety, and social protections. This limits their rights and economic opportunities.
At grassroots level, women engaged in ASM are often the unsung heroes of environmental stewardship. Their work brings them into direct contact with the natural environment, where they witness the impact of mining activities on the land, water, and ecosystems. One such example is of Zimbabwean women who have stepped up their innovative solutions to combat land degradation. Through mining associations they have started projects to reclaim disused mine shafts, with one such project being an avocado plantation spearheaded by the Zimbabwe Association of Women in Mining Associations (ZAWIMA), to ensure environmental protection and sustainable livelihoods.
Globally, the absence of women’s voices in high-level discussions on climate change and environmental policy is a significant oversight. Gender diversity in these critical conversations is essential for the development of comprehensive strategies that address the complex challenges of environmental sustainability. Without the active participation of women, ASM and environmental policy-making risk overlooking vital considerations necessary for achieving meaningful progress.
To address this gender disparity, it is imperative to empower women in ASM at all levels. This includes fostering an inclusive work environment that values gender diversity, providing targeted support for women’s education and training in sustainable mining practices, and actively involving women in decision-making processes related to environmental policy and resource management. One way of achieving that is by providing incentives to women in mining so that they have adequate resources to venture into sustainable mining practices. Such initiatives aimed at supporting women-led environmental activism and entrepreneurship in ASM communities can catalyze positive change from community level to global level.
In conclusion, the gender divide in ASM represents a critical obstacle to achieving environmental sustainability and addressing climate change. By embracing gender equality and empowering women to take on leadership roles, the industry can tap into a wealth of untapped potential and drive meaningful change. It is time to recognize and leverage the unique perspectives and experiences of women to usher in a new era of sustainable ASM and environmental stewardship for the benefit of present and future generations.
