Swift policy reforms and gender-inclusive actions are imperative for a sustainable future. During and after natural disasters, instances of gender-based violence tend to escalate. Displaced women are especially vulnerable to gender-based violence, as they are often forced to seek guardians of fragile ecosystems and are often at the forefront of climate activism and advocacy for gender Addressing gender disparities in resource access and decision-making processes is crucial.

often do not hold secure land titles or legal standing over the territories they have stewarded for generations well-meaning conservation initiatives that displace the very people who've preserved these ecosystems for generations have the effect of displacing Indigenous communities or blocking access to lands they've relied on for generations the compounding pressures of land dispossession, ecological degradation, and increased exposure to gender-based We support solutions that honor traditional knowledge, respect cultural heritage, and generate sustainable

Sustainable small enterprises can build a sustainable future for women in rural communities of Guatemala while protecting the local ecosystem. In the Municipality of Livingston, Guatemala, EcoLogic is helping develop environmentally sustainable small enterprises with local leadership to empower women of three rural Maya K'ekchi' communities. By working directly with three Women's Committees with ten members each to implement the project activities, the EcoLogic team aims to help provide and grow sustainable livelihood options for local women in an area where farming and fishing are the primary sources of subsistence. Workshop on baking local bread and pastries held on February 15, 2022. The project focuses on building the Women's Committees' administrative, financial, and organizational capacities to enable women to lead the decision-making process, participate in the local economy, earn an income, and take a leadership role in conserving the local ecosystem. The main goal of the project is to empower women to provide for their families' well-being and reduce unsustainable production practices that degrade natural resources. The EcoLogic team is working with its local partner APROSARSTUN and the Municipal Office of Women of Livingston to ensure the long-term sustainability of the initiative. Listen to Feve Cabnal, Director of the Municipal Office for Women of Livingston, explain more about the project. We are grateful to the Mesoamerican Reef Fund (MARFund) for its support and collaboration in this project.

Our new article explores why making agroforestry gender-responsive is critical for strengthening rural Gender-Responsive Agroforestry: Why It Matters Agroforestry —integrating trees, crops, and livestock It holds the power to advance gender equity, an essential but often overlooked dimension of sustainable Strengthening Institutional Accountability and Gender Mainstreaming  Inclusive policies must address Toward a Shared Commitment to Gender-Responsive Agroforestry The path forward is clear.

By empowering these women, we not only promote gender equality but also enhance efforts to conserve and We facilitate the passing of traditional knowledge  from older generations to younger women, preserving and promoting sustainable practices for future generations. By empowering these women, we not only promote gender equality but also enhance efforts to conserve and

Breaking Gender Barriers Down Both APROSARSTUN and Ak'Tenamit place a strong emphasis on promoting gender "In many communities, girls face barriers to education because of traditional gender roles," Sara explains To create a cultural shift toward greater gender equity, Ak'Tenamit organizes workshops on women's rights Additionally, they provide psychological support, partner with organizations focused on gender violence prevention, and educate both boys and girls on gender equity.

Possessing a wealth of ecological knowledge passed down through generations, the K'iche' have established of resistance against systemic injustices such as land dispossession, environmental degradation, and gender-based Photo credits: Lucy Calderón Additionally, K'iche' women are addressing the issue of gender-based violence Their efforts include advocating for comprehensive gender-based violence prevention programs and reforms

projects grounded in small-scale, resilient agricultural systems that support food security and income generation The initiative has also delivered gender-responsive capacity-building: so far this year, 35 women have already been trained on leadership, entrepreneurship, and climate resilience with a gender lens, laying We are deeply grateful to the Mesoamerican Reef Fund (MARFund) for their generous support and partnership

They preserve their heritage not only for themselves but for their children and future generations. their communities, thanks to their acquired knowledge of the territory and to overcoming established gender Historically, gender roles have constrained women's involvement primarily in domestic chores such as Indigenous women's participation can foster a stronger social fabric, active engagement in conservation, and gender Safeguard ancestral knowledge by passing down ecological wisdom to future generations. 

the play prompted adults to reflect on their responsibility to ensure water availability for future generations

It is well-established that gender equality and female empowerment are crucial in our fight for a sustainable America, cultural norms and established expectations can block the full potential of collaboration across genders This allows the needs of the community to be balanced between genders.

collaboration and ignite a collective movement to advance climate action, biodiversity conservation, and gender