Women and nature: An ecofeminist study of environmental conservation sustainability

Global issues such as the exploitation of women and the environment are exacerbated by patriarchy and capitalism, resulting in gender inequality and environmental degradation. Women play a crucial role in conservation, as seen in the Green Belt Movement in Kenya, the Chipko Movement in India, and the struggles of Dayak women in Indonesia. Ecofeminism integrates gender and environmental issues to promote equitable sustainability. This study examines the relationship between women and the environment from an ecofeminist perspective, focusing on patriarchal domination, women’s interaction with nature, and their traditional roles and ecological knowledge in environmental preservation. The research employs a literature review method, using credible journals, books, and reports to explore ecofeminism and women’s roles in conservation. The study focuses on identifying key themes related to gender and conservation, exploring diverse perspectives, and developing a conceptual framework for systematic analysis and logical conclusions. The findings show that ecofeminism critiques patriarchal structures that subordinate women and nature, often making them targets of exploitation. This approach promotes the integration of gender analysis in ecology for inclusive and sustainable development, emphasizing women’s crucial role as agents of change toward a more just world. Ecofeminism highlights women’s involvement in resource management, conservation leadership, and their role as key actors in environmental justice and gender-sensitive policy-making. This study contributes by emphasizing the importance of the ecofeminist perspective in critiquing patriarchy, integrating gender analysis in ecology, and recognizing women as agents of change in resource management, conservation leadership, and the formulation of inclusive, gender-sensitive environmental policies for sustainable development.