Climate adaptation plans are failing to account for rapid population growth and the disproportionate impact of extreme weather on women and girls, a new report warns.
The Population Institute says countries should include population trends, gender equality and access to reproductive healthcare when preparing for worsening heatwaves, floods, droughts and storms.
Its report found the average population growth rate across the 80 countries most vulnerable to climate change is twice the global average. It argues this can place further pressure on food supplies, public services and communities already struggling to adapt.
Women and girls are often hit hardest by climate disasters, with existing inequalities increasing their exposure to poverty, violence, child marriage and disruption to education and healthcare.
During a recent European heatwave, climate-related deaths were reportedly 56% higher among women than men.
The report also says natural disasters can reduce access to contraception and increase the risk of gender-based violence and trafficking.
Population Institute CEO Kathleen Mogelgaard said: “It shows that population is growing disproportionately in countries that are already highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, so we need deeper consideration of population growth trends in climate adaptation.”
The study examines Bangladesh, Niger, the Philippines, Uganda and the US, highlighting how climate and demographic pressures vary between countries.
Niger, ranked as the world’s second most climate-vulnerable country, has a population growth rate of 3.1%, nearly four times the global average. Uganda is also facing rapid population growth alongside droughts, floods and landslides, with more than 70% of workers dependent on rain-fed agriculture.
The report calls for voluntary family planning, education and greater autonomy for women and girls to be treated as part of climate resilience rather than separate social issues.
Mogelgaard said: “We know how to put population trends on a more sustainable path by lifting up family planning, education, gender equity, and autonomy for women and girls.”
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