The number of organisations forming ‘Philanthropy For Climate’, global movement that consists of national climate philanthropy ‘commitments’, reached 600 during the COP27 climate summit

Philanthropy For Climate was launched in 2019, calling all foundations, regardless of their mission, status or geographic location to commit to climate action.

‘We are excited to see increasing numbers of foundations around the world, many of whom do not work on climate change directly, commit to taking climate action. Last year before COP26 there were around 350 signatories, and now we have reached 600 during COP27. There’s a growing understanding within the philanthropy sector that climate change will affect all organisations, no matter where you are and what you work on,’ says Benjamin Bellegy, the Executive Director of WINGS, a global network of organisations that work to grow, strengthen and transform philanthropy.

Organisations are encouraged to take action across several different areas or ‘pillars’ and are provided with a guide for the sorts of actions they can take.

‘With world leaders, business and civil society representatives gathered in Sharm el-Sheikh, we are acutely aware of the pressing need for climate action and implementation of agreements and pledges. The coming months and years will be decisive. We are delighted to see a growing number of foundations, that differ in their missions, size, scope and geographic location, committed to urgent climate action. The work of every foundation impacts on and is impacted by the climate crisis – if we act now, we can each play our part in ensuring a fair and healthy future for the planet and the people who inhabit it,’ says Delphine Moralis, CEO of Philea.

Despite an increase in giving to climate change mitigation in the last year, total giving to climate change mitigation from individuals and foundations still represents less than 2% of global philanthropic giving, according to the ClimateWorks Funding trends 2022 report.

Organisations interested in signing a commitment or finding out more can visit philanthropyforclimate.org