Sri Lanka is renowned for its rich historical heritage, cultural diversity, and picturesque landscapes. Strategically positioned along ancient maritime trade routes, the island has historically served as a hub for trade and cultural exchange, shaping its handloom industry through interactions with Indian, Arab, and Southeast Asian traders. While Sri Lanka’s apparel industry flourished into a USD 4.5 billion sector by 2023 (JAAF, 2023), the handloom industry has remained a vital livelihood source for rural communities, preserving traditional craftsmanship across generations. Unlike mechanized production, which contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and aligning with environmentally friendly practices.

However, the handloom industry faces mounting challenges due to climate change. Rising temperatures and heat stress, particularly in the northern and eastern regions have adversely affected the well-being and livelihoods of weaving communities. Despite these difficulties,artisans remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving cultural heritage and traditional livelihoods.

To address these challenges, building climate resilience in the fashion and textile sectors is critical. Inclusive and participatory approaches that generate evidence at the local level are essential for effective risk management and climate action. In this context, the Multi-Actor Partnership for Climate Disaster Risk Financing and Preparedness (CDRFI), initiated by SLYCAN Trust, seeks to foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders to advance climate risk management, risk finance, and collective action. 

This report summarises the insights from a workshop held on 9th July, 2024 in Maruthamunai, a 150-year-old handloom producing village in the Ampara District. The workshop engaged government officials from the National Craft Council, the Department of Small Enterprises Development, along with 27 participants from handloom weaving families in Maruthamunai.

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