This article from The Policy Edge examines how Japan and India can make their net zero commitments work by bringing women's community and informal sector knowledge into clean energy and circular economy decisions. It argues that representation alone is not enough, and that women need real influence over project design, implementation, and governance. The authors point to measurable gaps in board and managerial roles, and propose pilots where women workers help shape decisions. Key proposals include a joint Japan India circular economy and community energy pilot program, a Gender Climate Governance Standard, and an index that tracks participation and influence separately from project outcomes. The article is useful for anyone following climate finance, transition governance, or the practical delivery of clean energy projects in Asia. It also highlights the value of India's informal waste economy and Japan's technical standards as complementary assets.
