| Title | Power, Gender, and the Ground Beneath: Rethinking Geothermal with People in Mind |
|---|---|
| Authors | Jeanne Vidal, Sofia Vargas-Payera |
| Year | 2026 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | |
| Abstract | As women’s participation in the labor market increases, they still face persistent economic and socio-cultural challenges. These include wage gaps, glass ceilings, part-time constraints, occupational segregation, and undervaluation of female-dominated professions, as well as sexism, harassment, and discrimination. In the context of the energy transition, recognizing the intersection of gender, energy poverty, and systemic exclusion is essential. Women must be included not only as end-users but also as active agents—decision-makers, innovators, and leaders—in shaping the future of energy. Geothermal energy, a key component of this transition, faces its own structural obstacles. These include a widespread lack of public understanding of subsurface systems, insufficient communication strategies, and a disconnect between scientific realities and public discourse. Too often, communication is reduced to project promotion, sidelining meaningful engagement with citizens. Technical explanations are oversimplified or delayed, fostering mistrust. There is a pressing need to include local stakeholders early in the process, ensure transparency, and recognize the public’s capacity to engage with complex issues. Additionally, geothermal projects are hindered by a lack of economic incentives, a weak regulatory framework, and social resistance—often rooted in poor communication and top-down approaches. To overcome these barriers, it is crucial to examine past participatory initiatives and successful communication models, while addressing social and environmental concerns. Special attention should also be given to the traditional relationship local communities have with geothermal resources, promoting a sustainable and respectful energy model. Raising awareness and building knowledge on geothermal energy and environmental issues remains an urgent priority. |