Debate on Climate Inequality and Women’s Role at Bradford University

October 14, 2025 Off By

Local event to discuss women’s disproportionate impact from climate change

A debate focusing on the unequal effects of climate change on women is scheduled to take place at the University of Bradford on Thursday 6 November 2025. The event, titled Climate Justice for Women, will feature national TV weather presenter Laura Tobin alongside a panel of scientists, academics, industry experts, and activists.

Event details and objectives

The discussion aims to explore why women hold less than a quarter of leadership positions in climate policymaking and to emphasise the importance of increasing female representation in this field. Attendees will have the opportunity to share their experiences and contribute to ongoing research at the University related to climate justice and gender inequality.

The event is free to attend and will begin with the Climate Justice Hub from 12:00 to 13:00, featuring interactive activities. Participants can engage with the research of Dr Pedi Obani, Associate Professor in the School of Law and Social Sciences, and contribute through artistic expressions such as placard making. The panel discussion will follow from 13:00 to 14:30, allowing for audience participation in the debate.

Key speakers and panellists

Laura Tobin – TV weather presenter and meteorologist, known for raising awareness about climate change.
Dr Pedi Obani – Associate Professor leading a four-year research project funded with £1.28 million to examine the adverse impacts of climate change on women and develop frameworks to address these issues.
Eddy Quekett – Climate justice activist and digital campaigner focusing on queer liberation and climate justice.
Marta Calore – Just Transition Analyst at the Climate Change Committee, advising the UK Government on inclusive net zero policies.
Varaidzo (Vee) Kativhu – British-Zimbabwean education activist and author, recognised for her work on education access, youth empowerment, and gender equality.
Mark Ellis-Jones – Climate Change & Energy Manager at the Environment Agency, leading regulatory efforts towards UK net zero.

Research background and wider context

Dr Obani’s research project, Gender Inclusive Climate Change Governance (GENCGOV), funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), seeks to improve understanding of women’s experiences of climate change and increase their representation in decision-making. The project combines legal analysis with artistic expression and aims to inform governments in countries including Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya.

The event is part of the University of Bradford’s Bradford 2025 programme, which highlights research addressing social inequalities and community priorities. It also takes place shortly before the United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP30) on climate change, scheduled in Brazil from 10 to 21 November 2025.