Other articles in this book also deal with issues of sustainable rural development, but a gender analysis is lacking. Topics include watershed protection, wildlife management, social forestry and biodiversity. This report draws on the wider body of research concerning gender and the environment to suggest some ways in which the conceptual framework adopted by the World Bank is deficient in terms of gender analysis. This chapter summarizes the environmental and social conditions women must contend with in Nepal. Recommendations are presented for both government and NGO programmes to recognize the crucial role women play in the changes that are needed.
Women are the primary participants in agriculture, food processing, water and fuel collection.
They can play a vital role in environmental education at the community level and in the integration of sustainable practices. However, their effectiveness is impeded by their low social status and low access to education and information. There is a severe shortage of formal and non-formal education programs for women. This chapter summarizes the environmental and social conditions women must contend with in Nepal. Recommendations are presented for both government and NGO programs to recognize the crucial role women play in the changes that are needed.