Ecofeminism: A Call to Value Care for the Earth and Humanity

Ecofeminism merges two transformative concepts: ecology and feminism. Rooted in the Greek word oikos (meaning “house” or “environment”) and the Latin femina (meaning “woman”), the term reflects a profound intersection of environmental and gender justice. It highlights how the oppression of women and the exploitation of nature are often intertwined, driven by societal structures of power, dominance, and economic systems that prioritize profit over care.

A Classical Definition

At its core, ecofeminism seeks to dismantle systems that perpetuate inequality and environmental harm while advocating for the recognition of care work in all its forms. It emphasizes the role of women—especially those in marginalized communities—at the frontline of environmental challenges. These women often shoulder the burden as caretakers of families, communities, and ecosystems, making their contributions essential yet undervalued.

Ecofeminists argue that the exploitation of women and nature stems from patriarchal systems that value domination, control, and extraction over well-being, sustainability, and equity. By challenging these paradigms, ecofeminism envisions a world where care for both the Earth and humanity is prioritized and respected.

The Economic Value of Care Work

Ecofeminism also brings attention to the economic imbalances in how society values different types of work. For instance, cutting down forests for profit, such as selling timber to corporations, is highly rewarded within traditional economic systems. In contrast, planting and nurturing a forest—work that regenerates ecosystems and sustains life—is rarely compensated. Those engaging in such essential regenerative efforts often must seek grants, subsidies, or donations to continue their work.

Similarly, the essential care work performed by "women"—whether through raising children, educating others, or providing healthcare—is often undervalued despite its foundational importance to human and societal well-being.

Ecofeminism calls for a revaluation of these contributions. It argues that the economic system must shift to recognize and reward ecological stewardship and caregiving as essential and valuable. By doing so, society can begin to heal the Earth and address entrenched inequalities that harm both people and the planet.

A Path Toward Justice and Sustainability

Ecofeminism challenges us to rethink how we value labor and progress. It advocates for a society that rewards care and sustainability over exploitation, where the empowerment of women and marginalized communities is intertwined with the health of the planet.

By giving economic value to care work—whether for the Earth, children, or communities—we can create a more just, sustainable, and balanced world. Ecofeminism is not merely a call for environmental and gender justice but a blueprint for reimagining our shared future in harmony with the planet and each other.