Gender Analysis of Air Pollution and Vehicle Transport, India

Evidence shows that, in some ways, air pollution impacts women and girls differently than men and boys. Factors involved may include biological differences, socioeconomic disparities, and unequal gender norms that affect exposure and types, as well as access to and impact of mitigation solutions. It is possible that general improvements in ambient air quality may not sufficiently address the particular sources that affect women’s exposure, and ultimately their health. Seeking to ensure that CAC’s clean air solutions are effective and inclusive, this gender analysis aims to obtain understanding of gender differences in issues, concerns, barriers, and opportunities in potential pollution reduction strategies, specifically, reduction of the impact of vehicular emissions on women and girls. The geographic scope of the review is at the country level for India with a focus, wherever possible, on Indore, Madhya Pradesh (MP). The analysis broadly addresses the following two questions: 1.     How do vehicle emissions impact women and girls differently (considering mobility patterns, street life, and street work) due to power dynamics, occupational differences, socioeconomics, cultural barriers, and political barriers? 2.     What are the opportunities for and barriers to women’s leadership, decision-making, entrepreneurship, employment, and meaningful participation in catalyzing clean air action to lower vehicle emissions and/or exposure to these emissions ?