Ecofeminism in Action: Case Studies from the Field

Understanding Ecofeminism

Ecofeminism is a movement that combines ecological concerns with feminist perspectives, advocating for the interconnectedness of the environment and human rights, particularly the rights of those who have historically been marginalized—especially women and LGBTQIA2S+ individuals. Ecofeminism recognizes that both nature and marginalized gender and sexual identities have been exploited, with their voices often ignored in decision-making processes. By addressing these intersections, ecofeminism seeks a world that is not only ecologically sustainable but also socially just and inclusive.

At its core, ecofeminism challenges oppressive power structures that harm both the environment and marginalized communities, and promotes ways of living that respect gender and sexual diversity as well as the planet. It encourages rethinking how societal systems operate and advocates for the fact that the needs and rights of all—regardless of gender, sexual orientation, racialisation, or identity—are considered. Many LGBTQIA2S+ activists are increasingly aligning with ecofeminism as they recognize the shared struggles against marginalization, be it environmental degradation or social inequality.

Case Study: The Chipko Movement and LGBTQIA2S+ Solidarity
The Chipko Movement in India, which began in the 1970s, is an iconic example of ecofeminism in action. Women in the Himalayan region hugged trees to protect forests from deforestation, but the movement’s impact reached beyond environmental concerns—it also reinforced the importance of women’s rights and involvement in local decision-making.

From an LGBTQIA2S+ perspective, the Chipko Movement parallels struggles for social justice and recognition. Just as women were asserting their right to be part of environmental governance, LGBTQIA2S+ communities are advocating for the recognition of their existence and roles in society. Both movements seek to dismantle the traditional power structures that perpetuate oppression. In the context of climate change, LGBTQIA2S+ activists are also leading initiatives that reflect ecofeminist ideals, such as organizing eco-pride events or advocating for more inclusive environmental policies.

Case Study: The Green Belt Movement

Founded by Wangari Maathai in Kenya, the Green Belt Movement combines reforestation efforts with women’s empowerment. This grassroots initiative not only helps restore ecosystems by planting trees, but it also creates opportunities for women to gain education and employment. By involving women in environmental conservation, Maathai showed how ecofeminism works at the intersection of gender justice and ecological restoration.

LGBTQIA2S+ groups have found inspiration in Maathai’s work, recognizing how environmental activism can be a platform for asserting diverse identities. In fact, LGBTQIA2S+ environmentalists are increasingly advocating for environmental justice that includes the specific needs of queer, trans, and non-binary individuals, who often experience climate change disproportionately. The fight for a just, sustainable future can’t leave out the unique struggles of these communities—whether it's ensuring their voices are heard in environmental policies or providing them with safe spaces to thrive.

Case Study: Women’s Earth Alliance—

The Women’s Earth Alliance (WEA) is a global initiative that supports women-led environmental projects. By providing resources and advocacy support, WEA fosters resilience and sustainability while ensuring women's leadership in the fight against environmental degradation. Importantly, WEA is also beginning to recognize the contributions of LGBTQIA2S+ communities and incorporates these voices in its mission to amplify all marginalized identities in environmental governance.

From water security projects to sustainable agriculture, WEA empowers individuals who identify as women and those who don’t, focusing on equality across gender and sexual identity. Their work highlights how ecofeminism can bring together diverse groups to address climate change while ensuring that LGBTQIA2S+ individuals are included in the leadership of these projects, offering a broader vision of social and environmental justice.

The Future of Ecofeminism: A Call for Intersectional Action
As climate change worsens, the relevance of ecofeminism becomes even more urgent, not just for women, but for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals who are often overlooked in environmental discussions. The struggles that LGBTQIA2S+ communities face in a world plagued by inequality mirror the challenges ecofeminism seeks to address. For example, marginalized queer communities, particularly trans and non-binary individuals, often face disproportionate vulnerabilities to environmental disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, or displacement due to rising sea levels.

Future strategies must continue to build on the successes of ecofeminism by integrating a strong intersectional approach that considers gender, sexual orientation, and the environment in policymaking. By amplifying the voices of LGBTQIA2S+ activists within environmental movements and supporting their leadership in these areas, we can ensure a future that is equitable, sustainable, and inclusive for all people, regardless of their gender or sexual identity.

Ecofeminism, at its core, promotes a vision of solidarity—one that seeks to repair the connections between the environment and all marginalized communities. It’s an invitation to unite, to safeguard the planet, and to honor the rights and experiences of all, ensuring that no one—whether cisgender, transgender, queer, or otherwise—is left behind in the fight for a more just world.