Hidden Costs of the African Floriculture Industry on Women and the Environment

Date

2012

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Volume Title

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Abstract

The paper argues that women’s health can be used as an indicator of system (and industry) sustainability. It identifies critical gaps in transdisciplinary research (identifying and characterizing links between ecosystems, their services, and their link to human health) and in translational research (incorporating indicators of these links in policies and practices). Judged solely by economic metrics, the floriculture industry is thriving. However, while current economic indicators flourish, the industry is not sustainable. The socio-ecological system is degrading, placing the future of floriculture and the health of women who work in the industry and their communities at risk.

Description

First Draft: November 1, 2011 / Second Draft:February 13, 2012

Keywords

FLORICULTURE, WOMEN'S HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, ECOSYSTEM APPROACHES, ECONOMIC GROWTH, GENDER EQUALITY, ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH, PESTICIDES, WETLANDS, INDICATORS, SOUTH OF SAHARA, KENYA, EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS

Citation

DOI