Climate Change and Women’s Occupational Hazards: Impact on Unpaid Work and Mental Health
Women around the world are shouldering a disproportionate burden of unpaid work, with over three-quarters of all such labor being done by women, totaling a staggering 11 billion hours a day. This revelation sheds light on the stark reality of gender inequality in the workforce, where women are often left to handle caregiving and household chores without compensation or recognition.
The impact of climate change has only exacerbated this issue, with extreme weather events and rising global temperatures posing additional challenges for women in the workplace. Dr. Manju Gupta, a Consultant Obstetrician and gynecologist, highlights the unique physiological responses of women to severe heat, making them more vulnerable to occupational hazards in sectors like agriculture and fishing.
Moreover, the mental health implications of this unequal distribution of unpaid work cannot be ignored. Studies have shown that women in low- and middle-income countries spend significantly more time on unpaid labor than men, leading to worse mental health outcomes and decreased quality of life. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated this imbalance, with women bearing the brunt of increased caregiving responsibilities and household chores.
As we navigate the complexities of climate change and its impact on the workforce, it is crucial to address the gender disparities in unpaid work and ensure that women are not disproportionately burdened by these responsibilities. By recognizing and valuing the contributions of women in the workplace, we can create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
