Conclusion: final thoughts and future directions.

Abstract This concluding chapter outlines several key points about the relationship between gender, climate change, and livelihood that have been highlighted by the contributions in this book. First, climate change is a gender issue. Second, the gender implications of climate change are not universal; different social, cultural, and ecological contexts can require distinct diagnoses and prescriptions. Third, climate change generates a broad range of direct and indirect outcomes for women and their livelihoods. Fourth, for governments, a laissez-faire approach to dealing with the gender dimensions of climate change is not only insufficient, it is counterproductive. Fifth, while governments must be active in their approach to mitigating climate vulnerabilities and fostering adaptations, the content, design, and implementation of public policy is important. Finally, women have agency and are using it, as grassroots organizers and activists, and as mothers, sisters, daughters, wives, and community members fighting for their lives and livelihoods. The chapter also discusses the book's themes in light of the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic; and provides some directions and ideas for future research.