Launch of International Philanthropy Commitment on Climate Change

Foundations and other philanthropic organisations are being urged to take action and sign up to a statement outlining their commitment to tackle climate change in a collaborative sector response to the emergency. The International Philanthropy Commitment on Climate Change was launched last week by a coalition of philanthropy partners and hosted by WINGS.

Recognising that climate concerns present a ‘serious risk’ to the pursuit of philanthropic aims, the consortium encourages all organisations with philanthropic resources – whatever their mission or field of expertise – to play their part and commit to driving change.

The coalition emphasises that philanthropic organisations, which hold assets for the common good, have a responsibility to use their resources, independence and influence to rise to the challenge. It states that there is less than a 10-year window to achieve change, saying:

“If we don’t act now, how can we be sure that we can act tomorrow?”

“The philanthropy sector has a unique, catalytic role and can help to bring about the necessary changes to ensure that everyone has equitable access to opportunities arising from the transition to a low carbon economy, and to ensure that the costs are not disproportionately borne by those who are least able to pay.”

The climate commitment statement covers seven core areas, ranging from education and learning to endowments and assets, operations to transparency. To find out more about the initiative and to sign up, see the campaign website at philanthropyforclimate.org.