Climate Change Guatemala Project #10651

Mayan Power and Light

by Appropriate Technology Collaborative

Summary

We grow local, green, inclusive economic opportunities in Guatemala. Women's social businesses create awareness and access to affordable solar power, water filters and fuel-saving stoves past "the last mile." 12 women's businesses can reach over 10,000 isolated, rural people with affordable solutions for health and productivity that reduce stress on the environment. Free trainings in indigenous languages, breaks the barriers between public uptake of these solutions without donor dependency.

$120,000
total goal

$25,432
remaining

470
donors

15
monthly donors

6
fundraisers

7
years

Challenge

Guatemala is the 3rd poorest country in the western hemisphere. Malnutrition is endemic with 50% of children chronically malnourished. Lack of quality education, training and income generation opportunities keeps people trapped in poverty. Women and girls face gender and geographical barriers to participating in the workforce, and are most impacted by climate change. With few economic opportunities, women struggle to feed and educate their children, continuing the cycle of poverty.

Solution

We train women and girls in basic technological and business skills to create income generation opportunities in rural areas. Growing an inclusive, green economy, our development model delivers solar power, filters & stoves into the hands of low-income, rural families who invest in clean air, light, and water for their family's health and economic development. With an accessible personal investment, children can read and women can weave at night, they have less parasites and a smokeless kitchen.

Long-Term Impact

Solar Power, Water Filters, and Fuel-saving Smokeless stoves improve the long term health of 10,000 low-income families every year: enabling them to spend less time out of work and less money on health care associated with respiratory disease and parasites. Nighttime efficiency and savings from affordable solar power solutions also helps advance the economic development of a community. Empowered women distributors of these products are positive role models to girls and change gender norms.