Article
Creating and Optimizing Employment Opportunities for Women in the Clean Energy Sector in Canada
Journal of Canadian Studies
(2022)
Abstract
Women are a minority in the energy sector everywhere in the world—and Canada is no exception. Concerns about climate change and fossil fuel insecurity have ensured significant interest in Canada
in the technologies and financing for transitioning to clean energy, but far too little attention is being paid
to the employment equity implications of such a transition. Despite growing awareness that renewables
like wind, solar, and bioenergy generate a much larger volume of employment than fossil fuels, even
organizations committed to advocating for social justice in debates about environmental sustainability
in Canada have never specifically mentioned gender inequity. This article identifies opportunities and
constraints for women’s employment in the renewable and clean energy sector in Canada. Broad findings
from this research suggest that women can gain optimal traction from clean energy initiatives only if there
are wider socially progressive policies in place. Since women’s ability to take advantage of new energyrelated employment options is often constrained by social barriers that limit their access to certain types
of education, training, and employment, it is crucial social equity policies go beyond energy sector planning to optimize economic opportunities for women. The conversation about gender equity in Canada’s
green economy is currently incipient and tokenistic. Raising awareness is therefore urgent and critical.
Keywords
- renewable energy,
- equity,
- inclusion,
- diversity,
- gender-based analysis,
- Canada,
- OECD countries
Disciplines
Publication Date
2022
Citation Information
Bipasha Baruah. "Creating and Optimizing Employment Opportunities for Women in the Clean Energy Sector in Canada" Journal of Canadian Studies (2022) Available at: http://works.bepress.com/bipasha-baruah/42/