A Mothers’ Day Call: Women, Rise Up For Transformative Clean Energy!

Women’s historic role in social and political change is being called upon once again, this time in the context of the global clean energy transition. The origins of Mothers’ Day, first celebrated in the 1870s by Julia Ward Howe, were rooted in women’s collective activism against war and violence, aiming to reshape society through political empowerment. This legacy resonates today as the United Nations urges women to take a leading role in driving the shift towards sustainable energy systems, highlighting the need for their active participation and leadership in this transformative movement. Key figures such as Lisa Kurbiel, head of the joint SDG fund Secretariat, emphasise that a truly transformative clean energy transition depends on women’s involvement not just as participants but as leaders. The transition is not merely a technological challenge but also a social one, involving decisions about who designs, invests in, and benefits from renewable energy infrastructure. With trillions of dollars expected to flow into renewable markets over coming decades, empowering women to lead these investments is seen as crucial to ensuring the transition is inclusive, innovative, and sustainable. However, the article highlights a significant barrier to women’s full engagement in clean energy: the lack of education and access to knowledge about renewable technologies. Traditional educational systems often perpetuate gender-based segregation in science and technology learning, leaving many women without the foundational understanding needed to advocate effectively for clean energy solutions. The piece argues for tailored educational approaches that meet women where they are, using interactive and relevant learning experiences to build expertise and confidence in the sector. Practical strategies proposed include pre-assessments to identify knowledge gaps, hands-on activities such as energy audits and internships, and collaborative learning methods that foster peer teaching and engagement. These initiatives aim to demystify clean energy concepts and empower women to become informed leaders in the transition. The article suggests that reframing celebrations like Mothers’ Day to include experiential learning opportunities related to clean energy could be a symbolic and practical step towards integrating women more deeply into the movement for a sustainable future.