The GINA project studies climate, housing and gender in the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona and is funded by the Generalitat de Catalunya

Gender-Inclusive Adaptation for a Changing Climate

The GINA (Gender-Inclusive Adaptation) project seeks to explore the intersection of climate, housing and gender in the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona. The project aims to address the overlooked dimensions of gendered vulnerability in climate adaptation in urban areas. Specifically, GINA examines how gender and social vulnerability intersect to shape experiences of climate-related displacement and gentrification. Through a combination of quantitative, spatial, and qualitative research methods, GINA will generate new insights into the socio-environmental risks facing marginalized communities, particularly women and girls.

The GINA project is funded by the Generalitat de Catalunya through the « Subvenció a projectes de recerca en l’àmbit de la igualtat de gènere i els feminismes » (Grant for research projects in the field of gender equality and feminisms; IFE038/24/000042).

Researchers: Amalia Calderón-Argelich, Isabelle Anguelovski, Lisa Hannuschke, Isabel Ruiz Mallén (UOC)

Objectives

  1. Mapping Intersectional Vulnerabilities
    Using demographic, social, and climate data, GINA will develop spatial maps that identify areas in the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona most vulnerable to climate and housing  risks.
  2. Community Perceptions and Experiences
    GINA will conduct focus groups and interviews with community members to understand lived experiences of the interlinkages between gender inequities, climate impacts and housing crisis. These discussions will explore how communities are adapting to climate impacts, the role of public policies (e.g., climate shelters), and their experiences with displacement or exclusion.
  3. Policy Recommendations and dissemination
    Based on findings from the data analysis and community engagement, GINA will provide actionable policy recommendations to local governments and urban planners. These recommendations will aim to promote inclusive, gender-sensitive climate adaptation strategies that address the needs of marginalized communities.

Research Approach

GINA adopts an intersectional approach, integrating gender into the study of climate gentrification to better understand how vulnerability is experienced differently across various social groups. It collaborates with several community-based organizations, research projects, urban planners, and local government offices in the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona to ensure the research is grounded in real-world challenges and community needs.

Impact and Future Steps

GINA aims to raise awareness about the gendered impacts of climate gentrification and advocate for the inclusion of vulnerable populations in urban climate governance. The project will foster long-term engagement with local communities, urban planners, and policymakers to create more resilient and equitable cities in the face of climate change and gender equity.