Empowering Women in Clean Cooking: A Conversation with Neha Sharma
Women play a pivotal role in the clean cooking sector—not only as the primary users of household cooking technologies but also as entrepreneurs, advocates, and leaders driving systemic change. Across the world, women are championing innovative solutions, influencing policies, and building sustainable business models that accelerate the transition to clean energy. Their leadership is essential in addressing household air pollution, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring that clean cooking becomes a mainstream priority in climate and development agendas.
As we celebrate International Women’s Month, the Clean Cooking Alliance (CCA) spoke to Neha Sharma, an alumna of the Women in Clean Cooking (WICC) mentorship program. WICC is co-led by CCA and supports and empowers women professionals in the clean cooking sector through mentorship, networking, and capacity-building opportunities. WICC has provided professional development support to over 180 female clean cooking professionals from over 30 countries. With extensive experience in clean energy, air quality management, and climate resilience, Neha has worked on transformative initiatives at the World Bank, tackling the intersection of air pollution and energy poverty. In this conversation, she shares insights into her journey, the impact of mentorship, and her vision for scaling clean cooking solutions globally.
What inspired you to pursue environmental science and transition into clean cooking?
My journey into environmental science began with a deep fascination for the interconnectedness of science and society during my bachelor’s in chemistry and later my master’s in environmental sciences. My transition to clean cooking came through my work on air quality management projects at the World Bank. While leading initiatives in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in India, I recognized the dual challenge of indoor air pollution and energy poverty. This realization pushed me to design and implement clean cooking programs that addressed emissions, empowered women, and improved livelihoods for millions.
Clean cooking is often overlooked in global climate discussions. What needs to change?
We need to position clean cooking as a multi-dimensional solution that addresses health, gender equality, and climate goals. Integrating clean cooking into climate finance mechanisms, air quality policies, and carbon mitigation frameworks will be key. Advocacy efforts should also focus on human stories behind the data to create an emotional and intellectual connection with global audiences.
What motivated you to join the WICC mentorship program?
I wanted to deepen my expertise in clean cooking and connect with global leaders in the field. The program provided an invaluable opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and develop strategic skills.
What was a key takeaway from your time as a WICC mentee?
My mentor, Dr. Sophie Jablonski, emphasized the power of a positive mindset. She encouraged me to embrace affirmations and approach challenges with confidence, which has been instrumental in my leadership and problem-solving skills.
How did the program impact your career?
The mentorship enhanced my strategic thinking, leadership, and ability to design impactful clean cooking programs. It also strengthened my understanding of the intersection between clean cooking, gender equality, and sustainability.
[ Read other interviews in CCA’s Women Energizing Change Series. ]
What advice do you have for WICC mentees and women entering this field?
Stay curious and open to learning from diverse perspectives. Build strong networks, leverage mentorship opportunities, and focus on scalable solutions that integrate clean cooking into broader sustainability frameworks.
What message do you want to share with the clean cooking community this International Women’s Day?
This International Women’s Day, I want to recognize the immense contributions of women driving innovation and change in the clean cooking sector. My message to this community is to continue empowering women as leaders, entrepreneurs, and agents of change while fostering inclusive and scalable solutions that improve lives and protect our planet. Together, we can build a sustainable, equitable future where clean cooking is not just a solution but a catalyst for transformative impact worldwide.
