"The international community has endorsed several plans of action and conventions for the full, equal and beneficial integration of women in all development activities" Chapter 24

Women are often the protectors and managers of natural resources.

In many areas, women have direct contact with the natural environment through collection of the fuel, food and fodder required for everyday needs.

Facts about women

In many developing countries women are responsible for more than 80% of the food and fuel supply. They make the difference between survival and starvation for their families and communities.

Women make up one-third of the world labour force yet perform two thirds of the world's working hours. Women head more than one-third of world households. Women make up a higher number of the world's poor.

In the UK, many women have a "house" version of sustainable development, trying to create a decent environment while working unsociable hours, often for peanuts.

Womens Development Organisations