Shades & shines of gender equality with respect to sustainable development goals (SDGs): The environmental performance perspectives

Abstract

Gender inequality occurs when one gender is given preferential treatment over another due to sex or gender-based prejudice. In the current study, the obvious women's underrepresentation in positions of authority, in addition to the continuing gender wage disparity, serve as unambiguous indicators that the fundamental human right to gender equality is being violated. This study investigates the connection between the Sustainable Development Goals for 2030, or SDGs, and equality for gender. We examine the effects of disparities in gender on the accomplishment of the SDGs and the function of policies that are gender-responsive in advancing sustainable development using empirical data from diverse nations. Our findings show that gender disparity is a major impediment to attaining SDGs, especially in the areas like reducing health, education, poverty, and economic growth. We also demonstrate how gender-responsive policies and initiatives can help remove these obstacles and advance women's suffrage and gender equality. According to our analysis, fulfilling SDG 5, which is concerned with achieving gender parity and promoting independence among women and girls, is important to accomplishing the SDGs and developing sustainable practices. Progress towards achieving SDG 5 has been uneven, and significant challenges remained. Gender equality enhances productivity and economic outcomes could increase GDP by up to 34%. Climate change exacerbate gender inequalities by reinforcing traditional gender roles & limiting women's opportunities. Ensuring gender equality in environmental policy promotes sustainable & equitable development. The performance of environment related SDGs are highly dependent on gender equality.