Challenging norms of masculinity can drive mass behaviour change towards sustainability.
Women are affected by the climate crisis disproportionately. An eco-feminist lens is necessary to make environmentalism intersectional and inclusive. However, we must expand the conversation beyond the gendered impacts of climate crises.While this focus is crucial, it often overlooks a significant driver of environmental harm: certain ‘toxic’ male behaviours and attitudes toward the environment. Shifting the concept of "strength" from domination to compassion—and from ego to eco—can redefine masculinity in ways that benefit both people and the planet.
Toxic masculinity is a set of behaviours and attitudes often linked to men that promote domination, suppress emotion, and glorify aggression. Originally coined by psychologist Shepherd Bliss in the 1980s, the term sought to separate harmful traits from the positive aspects of masculinity. Toxic masculinity not only affects personal relationships and health but also shapes destructive environmental practices. Men who embody these attitudes may view nature as something to control or conquer, leading to excessive consumption, exploitation of resources, and resistance to eco-friendly practices—patterns that ultimately harm both society and the planet.
Toxic Masculinity Traits:
Disregard for environmental concerns as "unmanly"
Excessive consumption and waste production
Aggressive exploitation of natural resources
Rejection of sustainable practices as "feminine"
Glorification of gas-guzzling vehicles
Dismissal of climate change science
Resistance to eco-friendly dietary choices (e.g., plant-based options)
Prioritising short-term gains over long-term sustainability
Viewing nature as something to be dominated and controlled
Stereotypes and attitudes towards the environment
Negative masculine stereotypes, such as viewing environmentalism as "unmanly" or prioritising short-term gains, can encourage actions that harm ecosystems and contribute to climate change. For example, research shows that men commit a significantly higher percentage of violent crimes than women, and this same mentality of violence often drives environmental exploitation. Traits like rejecting sustainable practices, excessive consumption, and prioritising status through fossil fuel-intensive activities, like driving large vehicles, contribute to environmental degradation.
Authoritarian movements have often combined climate denial with patriarchal values, reinforcing a harmful link between masculine identity and fossil fuel dependence.
Political scientist Cara Daggett’s concept of "petro-masculinity" explains how fossil fuel systems have historically supported male-dominated power structures, making it challenging to transition to sustainable energy. These power dynamics also appear in personal habits, with men consuming about 57% more meat than women—a habit linked to high environmental costs. Men are also less likely to embrace plant-based diets, which could lower their environmental impact. These behaviours reflect deeper cultural associations linking masculinity with unsustainable actions, which contribute to both personal health problems and global climate issues.
Masculinity and men’s wellbeing
Toxic masculinity also has direct effects on men’s well-being. Research shows that strict adherence to rigid masculine norms can lead to poor mental health, with men experiencing issues like depression, sleep disturbances, and a reluctance to seek medical care.This reluctance not only prevents them from getting needed medical help but also keeps them from adopting preventive health measures that could improve their lives. By rethinking masculinity, we can support healthier mental and physical lives for men and encourage them to embrace eco-friendly lifestyles.
Challenging toxic masculinity
Challenging outdated masculine norms can encourage eco-friendly behaviour. The concept of "ecological masculinity" suggests that men can express strength and leadership through environmental responsibility. When men see environmental stewardship as a valued and positive aspect of masculinity, they become role models for sustainable practices. This shift could lead to a cultural change where environmental consciousness is associated with strength, empathy, and integrity rather than domination.
Healthy masculinity
Healthy Masculinity Traits (Beneficial for the Planet)
Embracing environmental stewardship as a form of strength
Practising mindful consumption and waste reduction
Encouraging women in leadership positions and passing the mic
Advocating for sustainable resource management
Adopting eco-friendly practices without gender stigma
Promoting and using efficient, low-emission transportation
Engaging with and supporting climate science
Openness to sustainable dietary choices
Prioritising long-term environmental health
Viewing nature as something to be respected and protected
At the COP26 climate conference , women accounted for only 10% of global leaders, even though research shows that countries with higher female representation often adopt stronger climate policies. Healthy masculinity looks like men advocating for and including women in leadership and decision-making roles, encouraging diversity of perspectives and maintaining a respectful demeanour with their women colleagues.
Men in leadership roles can champion sustainability within their organisations. By implementing eco-friendly practices—such as reducing energy consumption, encouraging recycling, or promoting green commuting options—they set a positive example that can inspire a culture of sustainability within the workplace. Leaders who embed environmental stewardship in their company’s mission help raise awareness and make sustainability a shared organisational value. This commitment to green practices benefits both the environment and workplace culture.
What masculinity is not: carbon-intensive activities, such as driving larger vehicles or supporting fossil fuel industries. By redefining masculinity to include cooperation and care for the planet, men could help reduce these behaviours and foster a more sustainable society. It is important to be secure in your identity and create a space for the men in your life to also feel secure in their sustainable choices. Build community around climate and support individual and collective action around you.
As a man, you can play a vital role in driving environmental change through education and advocacy. By staying informed, engaging in discussions, and supporting inclusive policies, men can influence environmental policy and sustainability initiatives. Supporting gender-inclusive policies, for instance, ensures fairer and more effective solutions, as environmental issues affect people differently across gender lines. Active engagement in environmental campaigns, support for local organisations, and participating in policy discussions can all contribute to a more sustainable future.
Community engagement is another powerful way to promote change. Men can make a meaningful impact by participating in local environmental efforts, like conservation projects, community gardens, or cleanup initiatives. By mentoring younger generations in eco-friendly practices, men can help foster a culture of shared responsibility and environmental consciousness that has a ripple effect over time.
Real life examples of healthy masculinity
Sonam Wangchuk exemplifies healthy masculinity for a healthy planet, using awareness, community engagement, advocacy, and education to drive meaningful environmental change. As an engineer, innovator, and education reformist, Wangchuk has become a leading voice for protecting Ladakh’s fragile Himalayan ecosystem, actively working to shield it from industrial and mining pressures. His initiatives, like the “Ice Stupa” project to combat water scarcity, demonstrate practical solutions while uniting the community around sustainable practices. His efforts have gained widespread recognition, inspired a Bollywood film and earned him the Ramon Magsaysay Award, often considered Asia’s Nobel Peace Prize. Wangchuk’s leadership reflects how healthy masculinity rooted in stewardship, compassion, and collaboration can foster sustainable development and inspire environmental action that benefits both people and the planet.
This shift in how masculinity is understood can be seen in the growing movement of men who use their influence to promote environmental advocacy and sustainability. Public figures like Leonardo DiCaprio are helping to lead this shift by showing that masculinity can embody empathy and a deep commitment to the planet’s well-being. Since founding the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation in 1998, he has focused on raising awareness about climate change and its impacts on vulnerable communities. Through documentaries like Before the Flood and Cowspiracy, DiCaprio has brought critical climate issues into the mainstream, urging for global action. His recognition as a United Nations Messenger of Peace with a focus on climate change in 2017 underscores the influence of compassionate leadership and the evolving role of men in championing a sustainable future.
Taking healthy masculinity forward
DiCaprio’s advocacy redefines caring for our planet as an essential aspect of masculinity, inspiring men to see environmental stewardship as a form of leadership and strength. By championing sustainable practices, he challenges outdated norms and sets an example of healthy masculinity that values protection over exploitation. His proactive approach urges men to embrace their roles as protectors of the Earth, showing that a sustainable future needs men who are willing to care, nurture, and lead by example.
Healthy masculinity embraces qualities like vulnerability, respect, and care for nature, challenging the outdated notion that strength equates to control and dominance. Real strength lies not in conquering the Earth, but in nurturing it for a sustainable future. By redefining masculinity, we encourage behaviours that prioritise environmental stewardship, foster healthier relationships, and promote overall well-being. When men embrace eco-conscious practices and compassionate leadership, they contribute to a stronger, more sustainable world. To conclude, saving the Earth doesn’t diminish one's masculinity—it strengthens both character and community, proving that true strength lies in protecting, not exploiting, our planet.
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