‘Patriarchy causes climate change’: Dia Mirza’s remarks spark heated debate online

Actor and environmental activist Dia Mirza has found herself at the centre of a social media debate after remarks she made about climate change and patriarchy during a recent podcast appearance went viral.

Speaking on a podcast hosted by Soha Ali Khan, Mirza argued that patriarchal systems have played a significant role in driving environmental degradation, a statement that drew both support and criticism online.

The discussion, which also featured environmental journalist and author Arati Kumar-Rao, focused on climate change, humanity’s relationship with nature and the broader social structures that influence environmental outcomes.

What did Dia Mirza say?

During the conversation, Mirza said that climate change is closely linked to systems of power and domination.

“It is the men in this world. It is the men who have driven climate change, and they are totally responsible for the chaos,” she said, while discussing the historical forces behind environmental destruction.

Mirza argued that the exploitation of natural resources stems from a mindset centred on control, extraction and dominance over nature. Kumar-Rao added that patriarchy is not simply about men and women, but rather a broader system of values and power structures that can be upheld by people of any gender.

The discussion drew on ideas associated with ecofeminism, a school of thought that examines links between environmental exploitation and the historical subordination of women.

Social media reaction

The remarks quickly gained traction across social media platforms, where users expressed sharply divided views.

Supporters said Mirza was highlighting a recognised academic perspective that connects environmental degradation with systems of inequality and power. Others argued that the comments reflected broader conversations around environmental justice and sustainable development.

Critics, however, accused the actor of oversimplifying a complex issue. Many argued that climate change is primarily driven by factors such as industrialisation, fossil fuel consumption, government policies, economic systems and corporate emissions rather than gender-based power structures.

Some users also questioned whether celebrities were well placed to lecture the public on environmental responsibility, pointing to the carbon footprints often associated with affluent lifestyles.

A long-time environmental advocate

Mirza has been one of India’s most prominent celebrity voices on environmental issues for years. Associated with the United Nations Environment Programme, she has regularly campaigned on issues ranging from air pollution and sustainability to climate action and conservation.

The actor has previously said that her environmental activism deepened after attending a UNEP conference in Bangkok, where she was exposed to research on pollution and environmental challenges that had not yet entered mainstream public debate in India.

As Mirza continues to balance her acting career with environmental advocacy, her latest comments have reignited discussions about climate change, accountability and whether social systems play a role in shaping environmental outcomes.