As climate projections indicate an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events - such as heatwaves and increased day- and nighttime temperatures - this changing environment affects human health and well-being and causes economic losses. The International Labor Organization estimates that by 2030, more frequent and extreme weather events will lead to the loss of 2.2% of total working hours globally, equivalent to 80 million full-time jobs. These job losses translate to substantial economic losses, which are estimated to reach $2.4 trillion by 2030​ (ILO,2019). ‍

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Rising Temperatures Threaten Livelihoods in Sri Lanka

Although heat stress is a fact of life in the tropics, the most recent IPCC assessment report (IPCC AR6, 2023) concluded that humid heat stress in South Asia will become more intense and frequent during the twenty-first century. Heat stress occurs when the human body is unable to maintain a healthy temperature due to the prolonged exposure to high environmental temperatures, often exacerbated by intense physical activity. Exposure to extreme heat leads to heat-related illnesses, worsens chronic health conditions, and reduces cognitive and physical performance. The rise in global temperatures due to climate change has made heat stress incidents more frequent and severe.

In Sri Lanka, warming trends and increasing temperature extremes have been observed over the past decades, particularly in the northern and eastern parts of the country, where there have been more hot days and warm nights, as well as a decline in cooler weather. Heat stress, fuelled by climate change, is emerging as a major obstacle for communities in these regions, jeopardising their well-being and traditional livelihoods in agriculture and cottage industries. To assess the resilience of communities amidst environmental shifts, the SLYCAN Trust team connected with a village of handloom weavers in the eastern coast of Sri Lanka in Maruthamunai, Ampara. For over a century, these artisans have upheld their craft, preserving both cultural heritage and traditional livelihoods.

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Legacy of Maruthamunai Handloom Weavers

The handloom weavers of Maruthamunai are a part of the handloom industry in the country. Handloom weaving is an ancient craft that has been passed down through generations. Unlike mechanised production, handloom weaving is environmentally friendly, relying on minimal use of electricity and producing negligible carbon emissions. Each handmade piece bears the imprint of individual craftsmanship, designs, and traditional patterns, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and unique identity of the region's handloom textile products.

On October 9th, 2024, the SLYCAN Trust team met with representatives from the regional offices of National Craft Council and the Department of Small Enterprises Development, alongside members from 27 families of handloom weavers in Maruthamunai, Ampara, with the goal of investigating heat stress impacts on livelihoods, exploring coping strategies, and discussing community-level initiatives. 

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Community perspectives on climate change

Community perceptions of climate change are often based on direct observations of shifting weather patterns. In Maruthamunai, the community noted alterations in the rainy season, prolonged dry periods with intense heat, diminished greenery, and erratic rainfall leading to flash floods—all stark departures from previous decades. Connecting climate change to "weather changes over time" helped their understanding of the subject. Abdul, a 42-year-old weaver with 15 years of experience, vividly illustrates the impacts on his livelihood: "The extreme heat makes our work incredibly tough. We face skin rashes, dehydration, and constant fatigue. It's taking a toll on our health, slowing us down, challenging our ability to work effectively."

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Heat Stress and its Effects on the Handloom Industry

Community members shared that most handloom workshops are small and enclosed, with low natural ventilation and energy-inefficient steel roofing sheets, making them difficult to cool. Water scarcity during the dry season adds another layer of difficulty. Limited access to resources leaves these artisans particularly vulnerable, lacking the capacity to cool their workplaces effectively. The extreme heat disrupts work schedules and slows operations, leading to financial strain and declining product quality. Weavers struggle to find affordable ways to cool down, experience production delays, and risk lower market value for their work. Without proper insurance or government support, weavers bear the financial burden of these disruptions alone. The poor work environment created by increased climate impacts, particularly heat, makes the handloom industry less attractive for the next generation.

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Solutions to strengthen the handloom community

The handloom industry in Maruthamunai, cherished for over a century, faces a growing challenge from climate change. Ensuring access to long-term capacity development for effective heat management is now critical. This includes providing access to cost-effective roofing materials and sustainable technologies designed to reduce heat stress in workshops. External financial and technical support equips the artisans to enhance market value and recognition for handloom products. Implementing comprehensive insurance coverage to safeguard both businesses and employees in the handloom industry, especially amidst climate-related disruptions and other potential risks, improves their resilience. These proposals, brought forward by the participants, aim to strengthen artisans and communities deeply rooted in this traditional craft, empowering the younger generation to preserve and innovate within the industry.

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Closing Thoughts

The story of Maruthamunai's handloom weavers is a powerful example of resilience in the face of rising temperatures and other climate-related challenges, but it also illustrates the need for further support against the backdrop of increasing climate change impacts. As these artisans continue their century-old craft, heat stress and other impacts threaten their health, productivity, and economic stability, making it crucial to find sustainable solutions. Improving workshop conditions, providing financial and technical support, and offering comprehensive insurance can help these weavers adapt. By fostering resilience and innovation, we can ensure that the rich heritage of handloom weaving continues to thrive even as the climate changes.