Empowering Women and Local Governance: A Path to Environmental Conservation

Abstract

Environmental conservation is crucial in the face of ecological imbalances like deforestation and pollution; and the role of women is indispensable for effective conservation. Women with their traditional knowledge and daily experiences provide a unique understanding of resource sustainability. Empowering them to lead an environmental initiatives, alongside decentralized governance systems, strengthens community resilience and promotes sustainable development. This paper explores the role of women and local governance in achieving sustainable environmental practices and  examine key women-led environmental movements such as Navdanya movement. Additionally, the paper emphasizes the need for institutional support to ensure women’s representation in political and environmental decision-making bodies.