Not-for-profits key role in fighting Climate Change
Author: Sandy Thompson, LEAD Director & CEO
Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges facing our planet today and is now on the forefront in New Zealand communities. Weather events and other effects of climate change that we have recently experienced, have impacted thousands of people around the county and threaten to irreversibly damage our ecosystems and communities.
The argument is over: climate change threatens the very existence of our planet and poses a threat to our collective welfare.
Not-for-profit organisations play a critical role in addressing this challenge as they are uniquely positioned to mobilise resources and drive change at the local (and global) level. I personally believe that it is the moral obligation of all non-profit organisations to fight against climate change and to mitigate its effects. This can be achieved by working collectively, raising awareness, implementing sustainable practices, and advocating for policies that protect the environment.
A few years ago I did some research on organisation sustainability with predominantly social service providers. When the topic of environmental sustainability was raised, most felt that work on environmental issues sat in the domain of the environment and conservation not for profit organisations. While some did have environmentally sustainable policies and practices in their operations, it was not clear to most how their work aligned with that of the not for profit environment sector.
We have come a long way since then. We all now know very well that the whole not-for-profit sector is critical to the wellbeing of communities that are vulnerable to the effects of climate change and are the most disproportionately affected by climate change. This includes the extreme weather events we just experienced, rising sea levels, food and water insecurity and the downstream economic impact of these. By working to mitigate the effects of climate change organisations are working to protect these communities and promote social equity.
Given their location and status in communities, all not for profit organisations, not just those with environmental missions, have a significant opportunity to educate the public about climate change and its impact on their lives. This includes providing local information and supporting those who deliver, seminars, workshops, and educational campaigns that educate people about climate change and its effects. Here in Aotearoa we have a number of groups who are already doing this and would welcome support from others in the community sector. (Check out EHA for information on your local group).
All not for profit organisations have a responsibility to act as role models and to inspire action in their internal and external stakeholders. By taking a strong stance on climate change and implementing sustainable practices in our own organisations, we can set an example for others to follow.
Sustainable practices include those that reduce an organisation’s carbon footprint such as reducing energy consumption by using energy-efficient equipment, implementing recycling programmes, and reducing paper usage.
Environmental sustainability can be promoted by encouraging transportation options among staff and volunteers. (Some large Corporates are now giving staff cash incentives to use public transport, bike or walk.) Additionally, organisations can source eco-friendlyproducts and services, reduce water usage, and use renewable energy sources. This type of overt action in our organisations can help to catalyse a broader movement towards sustainability and create a culture of environmental responsibility in our sector and beyond.
Given their community influence, existing stakeholder relationships, and advocacy expertise, all non-profit organisations have the ability to advocate for policy change and to mobilise public support for climate action. By working to raise awareness about the urgency of climate change and the need for action, our organisations can help to build a groundswell of support for policies that promote sustainability, protect the environment, and mitigate the effects of climate change.
Working together amplifies everyone’s efforts and provides opportunity to leverage each other’;s resources and expertise to achieve individual and collective organisational goals towards mitigating the effects of climate change.
By prioritising sustainability in our strategy and practices our organisations can contribute to creating a more just and sustainable world by addressing the urgent threat of climate change. Surely it is in all of our interests to create a brighter future for ourselves and for future generations?