Offshore wind energy and feminist political ecology in the global South: Research perspectives focused on small-scale women fishers

Abstract

This methodological essay discusses the relevance of analyzing the impacts of offshore wind energy on the livelihoods of artisanal fisherwomen and shellfish gatherers. It emphasizes the potential of qualitative methodologies, particularly Social Cartography and the construction of the SWOT matrix, to broaden the understanding of women’s fishing activities in marine territories. Grounded in concepts from political ecology with a gender perspective, the study highlights dimensions that are often rendered invisible in the processes of implementing energy technologies in Brazil. Thus, it seeks to contribute to the debate on energy justice and intersectionality by advocating for the integration of gender studies into the Geography of Energy. Furthermore, it underscores the need to incorporate women into public policies related to the expansion of renewable energies, ensuring that their experiences and practices are recognized at every stage of the process. Finally, the essay analyzes the potential of participatory methods in the collection of qualitative data, proposing approaches that foster social and environmental justice in the face of the transformations advanced by the energy sector.

Keywords: SWOT Matrix; Social Cartography; Shellfish Gatherers; Energy Transition; Northeast Brazil.