Because of the strong link between politics and the life-supporting systems of the planet, political empowerment is essential if women are to effectively mobilize for environmental action. Even though women are often the first victims of ecological destruction, they can also improve the environment substantially through community action, as was testified in many recent women grassroot actions such as the Chipko movement in India, or the Greenbelt movement in Kenya. Women can also contribute to improving the environment at the highest level, by holding key political or influential positions. Women's political involvement in environmental issues at all levels has demonstrated their crucial role in mobilizing resources and raising environmental awareness. It has also shown that women can bring spontaneity and creativity in the political process.
Women therefore have a key role to play in ecological decision-making.