Gender Gaps in Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Environmental Degradation in Colombia

Environmental degradation is a major public policy challenge, with the Global South being particularly vulnerable to its effects. In developing countries, women and girls often bear a greater burden of climate change and air pollution than men and boys do. The international literature suggests that compared to men, women are more concerned about environmental degradation and adopt more sustainable practices in their daily lives, but research on this matter in Global South countries is scarce. This study aims to explore the gender differences in environmental knowledge, attitudes, and practices (E-KAP) among secondary school-aged children in Colombia. In Latin America, no research has yet examined the underlying mechanisms driving these differences. We confirm that compared to boys, girls are significantly more concerned about the environment and feel more responsible for climate change (8–10 p.p.). We also provide new insights into girls’ greater awareness and familiarity with indoor air pollution (IAP) (8.5–9 p.p.) and expand on previous research that focused on exposure rather than on perception. Our findings can help in designing and developing inclusive education policies for climate adaptation and mitigation, particularly in Global South countries, and they have the potential to empower students in the face of climate change.