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The aim of this chapter is to explore the gender dimension of different aspects of renewable energy in the North and South, in particular how renewable energies can contribute to gender equity so that both women and men benefit fairly from access to energy services. The term ‘gender’ is used here deliberately rather than ‘sex’. The term ‘gender’ refers to socially constructed roles of women and men rather than biologically determined differences. These gender roles of men and women, with their accompanying responsibilities, constraints, opportunities and needs, are defined by a particular society. Gender roles are learned by children as part of their socialization process. The roles change over time and vary widely within and across cultures. Men and women play different roles in both Southern and Northern societies, although at first glance the roles in the North may not be as clearly visible as they are in the South.

Biodiesel is a sustainable, non-toxic, biodegradable diesel fuel substitute that can be employed in current diesel car infrastructure without major modifications in the engines. It has a significant added value compared to petroleum-based diesel, reflected in a series of improved properties including fewer carcinogenic particulate matter emissions, increased lubricity and biodegradability as well as ease of handling, transport and storage. Nevertheless, it is essential that the biodiesel life-cycle is environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and socially acceptable; views that can only be properly analysed by means of a multi-angle approach. In this contribution, we aim to provide a multidisciplinary perspective on key issues for the successful implementation of biodiesel as a petrol fuel replacement including green chemistry methods to improve production and quality, the use of energy crops and feedstocks for second-generation biodiesel as well as socio-economic studies and the importance of governmental regulatory issues.

It is our great pleasure to introduce the theme of gender and energy in this special issue of Energy for Sustainable Development (ESD). This critical topic, or nexus of topics related to both gender and energy, has gained increased attention in academic literature, national and international discourse, and as an area of focus within international development assistance and national development planning. This discourse is a maturing field which has evolved in sophistication and analytic rigour over the years, and today is recognised as one of the most pressing sets of issues related to rural energy service provision, economic empowerment of women and communities, local health and environment concerns, and gender equality in access to education and health services.