Integration of a gender approach in environmental management in El Salvador

PROJECT UPDATE

Project Overview

This initiative supported El Salvador’s integration of the gender approach in data generation and formulation of indicators in environmental management.

Project Profile

The Technical Assistance Partnership-Expert Deployment Mechanism (TAP-EDM) project works collaboratively with El Salvador’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN) and the Gender and Institutional Policy Unit for Equality and Non-Discrimination to strengthen the capacity of key staff to develop and adopt well-informed and effective policies and programs to address gender gaps in environmental management.

Marco Heredia, an environmental and climate diplomacy expert, provided technical assistance through training on best practices, strategies, and tools for collecting and analyzing disaggregated data and indicators. This work supported the decision-making and implementation of policies and programs that reduce gender gaps in environmental management and mitigate the unequal impacts of environmental degradation, natural disasters, and climate change on women and girls.

Key Deliverables

1. Capacity Support and Training

• Conducted interviews with MARN staff to identify gender and environmental management indicators
• Facilitated two in-person workshops in El Salvador on GBA Plus training, awareness, and report validation
• Provided ongoing virtual support and coaching for MARN staff

2. Technical Support and Knowledge Products

• Conducted a comprehensive desk review alongside a needs assessment report and best practices compilation.
• Developed a guide for information collection, analysis, and indicators on gender equity and environmental management.

Project Outcomes and Lessons Learned

Improved capacity of MARN personnel to gather data and information on the nexus of gender and environment, thus contributing to a more informed and evidence-based policy, resulting in strengthened environmental governance and enhanced women’s participation in decision-making processes.

This initiative succeeded within a limited budget due to the collaboration and support from dedicated experts and key stakeholders, ensuring strong leadership and high-level political backing.

Reach and Engagement

Direct Project Reach:

• 33 participants reached through workshops and other project activities

Public Engagement (Canada):

• 87 Canadians reached through outreach and knowledge-sharing activities

Public Engagement Activities:

• Canadian expert Marco Heredia:
  • Participated in:
    • The TAP-EDM Latin America and Caribbean Forum in Ottawa
    • Various events in person and online about women and climate change in San Salvador
    • “Climate Voices Week” during International Development Week (IDW), organized by GAC
  • Published various posts on Twitter and LinkedIn about the initiative
  • Wrote an article for TAP Blog
• The initiative was also featured in a TAP News article