CLIMATE SENSITIVITY THROUGH A GENDER LENS: BELIEFS, ACTIONS, AND MOTIVATION IN PESHAWAR

Abstract

Climate change is a critical global challenge that affects people differently based on gender. This study investigates gendered responses to climate change in Peshawar, Pakistan. Focusing on belief, motivation and action of the gender. Using primary data in which the total number of respondents were 415 and applying binomial logistic regression model, the research tests whether the systematic difference exist between men and women regarding climate sensitivity. Findings show that, contrary to international trends, men in the region exhibit stronger climate change beliefs, while women demonstrate higher motivation while more frequent climate friendly behaviors. Survey responses further revealed key barriers to climate change which are lack of awareness (62.5%). (59.3%) of the respondents identified that lack of government support and 45.6% were of the view that there is a lack of financial constraints that limit broader participation in climate action. However, there were frequently proposed community-led solutions by the respondents like; awareness campaigns and grassroots environmental initiative. These findings underscore the importance of gender sensitive climate policy and the need to empower women as agents of changes. The study contributes to growing literature on ecofeminism and calls for inclusive climate intervention that addresses both structural inequalities and localized cultural norms in order to meet the SDGs goal 5 and 13