Gender Mainstreaming Takes Center Stage at COP29 NZN Pavilion
BAKU, AZERBAIJAN—On November 13, 2024, at the NZN Pavilion during COP29, a powerful discussion underscored the critical link between gender equality and the global clean energy transition. The event, titled "Gender Mainstreaming the Clean Energy Transition," highlighted how integrating gender perspectives into policy and practice is essential for building sustainable and inclusive energy solutions.
The panel, organized by Net Zero Nuclear (NZN), featured a lineup of influential speakers, including Joanna Osawe, Founder, President, and CEO of WiRE (Women in Renewable Energy). She was joined on the panel by a dynamic young leader and advocate for gender equality in the nuclear industry. The conversation was expertly moderated by Gunjan Indauliya, a nuclear engineer and neutronics scientist who also serves as a Membership Lead and Policy Advisor for WiN Global Young Generation.
Key Takeaways and Passionate Dialogue
The discussion centered on two primary themes: mitigation and intersectionality. Panelists and audience members engaged in a lively exchange on strategies to enhance women's participation and leadership in clean and renewable energy sectors. The most passionate part of the event revolved around applying an intersectional lens to the nuclear industry and energy sector as a whole, recognizing that gender equality cannot be addressed in isolation. The dialogue explored how diverse factors, such as race, socioeconomic status, and geographic location, intersect with gender to create unique barriers and opportunities in the energy workforce.
For Osawe, a highlight of the conference was the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, reinforcing the importance of building strong professional networks. This included a welcomed reunion with Sama Bilbao y Leon, the Director General of the World Nuclear Association (WNA).
The event also touched upon the significant momentum of the Net Zero Nuclear Initiative, a pledge supported by over 130 companies to triple nuclear energy output by 2050.
The Net Zero Nuclear Initiative & World Nuclear Association
The Net Zero Nuclear (NZN) initiative is a collaborative effort between governments and the nuclear industry, managed by the World Nuclear Association. Its core mission is to promote the essential role of nuclear energy in achieving global climate goals and to advocate for a significant increase in nuclear power generation to meet rising energy demands. The initiative aims to at least triple global nuclear capacity by 2050 to help achieve carbon neutrality. By bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society, NZN seeks to ensure that nuclear energy is recognized and supported as a key clean energy source.
The World Nuclear Association (WNA) is the international organization representing the global nuclear industry. Its mission is to promote nuclear energy as a clean, safe, and reliable source of electricity and to facilitate the development of policies that support sustainable development. The WNA provides authoritative information, develops common industry positions, and represents the industry's interests in key international forums, including COP conferences. As Director General, Sama Bilbao y Leon leads the WNA in its efforts to enable the growth of the nuclear sector and communicate its value to a global audience.
A Clear Path Forward
The "Gender Mainstreaming the Clean Energy Transition" event served as a crucial reminder that the path to a sustainable energy future is intrinsically tied to social equity. By championing women's leadership and applying an intersectional approach, the energy sector can unlock new innovations and create more just and resilient systems. The discussions at the NZN Pavilion provided concrete strategies and fostered a sense of community, reinforcing that collaboration is key to achieving the ambitious goals set at COP29.
The dialogue demonstrated that moving beyond traditional approaches to energy development and embracing diverse perspectives is not just a matter of fairness but a strategic imperative for global climate action. As the world accelerates its transition to clean energy, events like this one are vital in ensuring that this journey is equitable and benefits everyone.
Learn more about Net Zero Nuclear
Written by
Andrew Osawe
Operations Director
Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE)
