Scorched by Heat: Sri Lankan Female Farmers Bear Climate Change

As floods and droughts became more frequent in Sri Lanka over time—alongside the slower onset of changes in rain patterns and temperature—reduction in harvests are becoming regular.

This means, in rural Sri Lanka, many women involved in agriculture—either to earn an income or for household sustenance—are left increasingly economically vulnerable, trapped in cycles of debt, or dependent on their husbands.

According to a World Bank report, by 2050, living standards in Sri Lanka are estimated to drop by 10 percent due to the effects of climate change. Yet, there is very little reporting at ground level on how climate change impacts the everyday lives of Sri Lankans.

Journalist Dimuthu Attanayake, in this groundbreaking project, tells the harrowing tales of female farmers from Sri Lanka—about how climate change takes away their livelihoods, hope, and dignity.