Climate change has a disproportionate impact on marginalized women, exacerbating gender inequalities and making them particularly vulnerable to its effects. As primary caregivers and providers in many communities, women are often the hardest hit by climate-related challenges. Natural disasters frequently lead to displacement, leaving women more exposed to violence and exploitation. Furthermore, limited access to education and resources hinders their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions, trapping them in cycles of poverty and vulnerability. To effectively address climate change, it is essential to recognize and correct the gender disparities that amplify its impact on marginalized women.

In response to these challenges, AMAL Foundation partnered with EMK Center to launch Project Climate Champ, an initiative aimed at empowering women and girls from disaster-prone areas of Bangladesh, particularly focusing on rural communities like Char Shonpocha in Sariakandi, Bogura. This project was designed to help girls and women aged 14 to 22 years develop the skills necessary to mitigate the challenges posed by climate change.

The project’s primary objective was to provide women with the tools and knowledge to overcome the climate-related difficulties. Through training in leadership, empowerment, animal husbandry, and agriculture, the project aimed to foster self-reliance and economic independence.

As a result of the project, 40 women and girls gained sewing skills and were empowered to earn an income, with 35-40% of them now earning 3,000 to 4,000 BDT per month from their newfound abilities. Beyond the immediate economic benefits, these women have become strong advocates for climate awareness, actively educating their communities about the impacts of climate change and how to adapt to these changes.Project Climate Champ has successfully equipped these women not only with practical skills for economic empowerment but also with the knowledge to be agents of change in their communities.