The care economy is an important but unrecognised sector for climate change adaptation. I use the term “care economy” to encompass the work of caring for people that is paid and unpaid, largely undertaken by women. This work takes place in a range of places. This includes private and public settings, such as households, community centers, hospitals, schools, and care homes.
In a climate adaptation context, investing in infrastructure and quality services for care can help build resilience of families and communities. It can also strengthen preparedness and response efforts to various climate hazards.
However, in countries around the world, deficits in paid care services are widespread. They are especially apparent in urban areas where informal settlements, and poor access to energy, fuel, clean water, and basic services, make caregiving especially difficult.
