Ecofeminism is a movement that combines elements of feminism and environmentalism, emphasizing the links between gender equality, ecological health, and social justice. According to Hobgood-Oster, “all forms of oppression are connected,” suggesting that we need to confront these issues simultaneously, as they are closely related (Hobgood-Oster, 1). This perspective indicates that both the challenges faced by women and the degradation of the environment originate from patriarchal systems that prioritize power over cooperation. Ecofeminist scholar Rosemary Ruether asserts that genuine freedom for women and effective solutions to environmental crises cannot exist in societies based on oppressive control. She states, “There can be no liberation for them [women] and no solution to the ecological crisis within a society whose fundamental model of relationships continues to be one of domination” (Ruether, 1996). Ecofeminism aims to confront and dismantle these oppressive structures, advocating for a society that values caring, respect, and diversity rather than dominance. Hobgood-Oster emphasizes the need to move away from strict hierarchies and embrace “radical diversity and relationship,” inspired by nature’s rich variety and the feminist commitment to valuing differences (Hobgood-Oster, 3). Although ecofeminism addresses the intersections between gender, race, and environmental issues, it also faces criticism for potential essentialism, perpetuating racism, and a focus that is predominantly Western. Critics argue that the experiences and perspectives of marginalized groups are often simplified or ignored. Nevertheless, the foundational belief of ecofeminism endures: the oppression of women and environmental degradation are deeply interconnected, and addressing both is crucial for creating a fairer and more sustainable world.
The 2017 film Wonder Woman provides a cultural example of the woman-nature connection, showcasing ecofeminist themes through its portrayal of Amazonian women. Diana Prince, raised on Themyscira, an island where the Amazons live in harmony with nature, embodies the ecofeminist idea of women and nature in balance. On Themyscira, the Amazons respect the earth and live in ecological and social harmony, offering a vision of empowerment grounded in environmental care. As a warrior and protector of the land, Wonder Woman exemplifies this ideal. Her deep connection to nature contrasts with the destruction she witnessed during World War I. Diana’s belief that humanity should live in harmony with nature challenges patriarchal systems that exploit both women and the earth. Her respect for life, rather than domination, aligns with Hobgood-Oster’s critique of the mechanistic worldview that separates humans from nature. In this sense, Wonder Woman presents an ecofeminist vision where women and nature are equally valued and protected.
Where women are primarily responsible for collecting water for their families. The growing scarcity of clean water, driven by climate change, deforestation, and over-extraction, disproportionately impacts women, exacerbating both gender inequality and environmental harm. Ecofeminism underscores the intersection between the oppression of women and the exploitation of natural resources. In this region, women don’t only bear the responsibility of securing water but also endure the physical strain of traveling long distances to gather it from unreliable sources. This situation reflects patriarchal systems that place the burden of care work on women while ignoring the ecological consequences of unsustainable resource use. Water depletion is further fueled by large-scale industrial activities such as agriculture, mining, and urban expansion, which prioritize economic growth over sustainable water management. These environmental impacts degrade ecosystems that women rely on for food, medicine, and livelihoods. Many women are leading grassroots movements advocating for water justice, raising awareness about climate change, and challenging policies that harm the environment. By empowering women to lead these efforts, ecofeminism emphasizes interconnectedness, care, and respect for both human and non-human life, advocating for solutions that address both gender and environmental justice.
