In the sweltering heat of a Bangladesh village, Naila Chowdury witnessed firsthand how climate change and gender inequality create a devastating cycle of poverty.
Today, as a global advisor and women's rights champion collaborating with Restore the Climate (RTC), she's turning that knowledge into action – fighting for a future where climate solutions and gender equity go hand in hand.
The harsh reality is stark: women bear the heaviest burden of our climate crisis, despite having contributed least to its creation.
UN projections paint a grim picture – by 2050, climate change could push an additional 158 million women and girls into poverty, while leaving 232 million facing food insecurity.
But in Chowdury's eyes, these aren't just statistics – they're stories of mothers, daughters, and sisters whose lives hang in the balance.
Drawing from her 28-year career spanning 10 countries and her groundbreaking work with Grameen Phone that economically empowered 12 million women, Chowdury brings unique insights to RTC's ambitious mission. "When we talk about restoring our climate to pre-industrial safety levels, we must ensure women are at the forefront of both planning and action," she emphasizes.
Her expertise in economic empowerment, human rights, and inclusive growth aligns perfectly with RTC's comprehensive approach to climate restoration.
The intersection of gender and climate change manifests in countless ways.
Women in developing nations often walk miles daily for water, their journeys growing longer as traditional sources dry up.
During natural disasters, women are 80% more likely to be displaced, facing increased risks of violence and health complications.
Pregnant women particularly suffer, with rising temperatures linked to higher rates of preterm births and pregnancy-related complications.
But where others see insurmountable challenges, Chowdury sees opportunities for transformation.
Her work with RTC focuses on ensuring that climate restoration solutions don't just address environmental concerns but actively promote gender equity.
By combining RTC's goal of reducing atmospheric CO2 to below 300 ppm by 2050 with targeted support for women-led initiatives, they're creating a model for truly sustainable change.
"Climate restoration isn't just about innovative technology or policy changes," Chowdury notes. "It's about ensuring that women – especially those in vulnerable communities – have a seat at the table and access to resources."
Her experience working with organizations worldwide, from the G20-C20 India to Fashion 4 Development, brings valuable perspectives to RTC's coalition of international climate leaders.
The path forward is clear: effective climate solutions must address gender inequality.
Through RTC's partnerships with scientific institutions, government bodies, and civil society organizations, Chowdury is helping to integrate gender considerations into every aspect of climate restoration work.
From supporting women-led environmental initiatives to ensuring climate policies consider gender-specific impacts, their approach recognizes that environmental and social justice are inseparable.
As we race against time to restore our climate, Chowdury's message resonates with urgent clarity: women aren't just victims of climate change – they're essential leaders in the fight to solve it.
Through her collaboration with RTC, she's proving that when we empower women, we empower climate solutions that benefit everyone.
To learn more about how you can support gender-responsive climate restoration initiatives, visit RTC's website and join the movement for a more equitable and sustainable future.
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Note: The Author, George C. Keefe is an Environmentalist, Green Coatings Enthusiast, Advisor, Contractor, Consultant, Vegan, Blogger, Podcaster. Protecting the Health of People & Planet. CEO & Founder at GLOBAL Encasement, Inc., Restoration & Management vs Removal & Replacement. Why Replace – Just Encase!
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