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We believe that the negative impacts of climate change are a central challenge for our generation. We also acknowledge that injustice and poverty, exclusion and disadvantage contribute significantly to the inability of our nations, communities, families and individuals to respond positively to that challenge. We recognise the crucial role of third sector organisations – not-for-profit organisations, community groups, social enterprises, non-governmental, charitable and voluntary organisations – in confronting this challenge and promoting sustainable development.
We acknowledge that there is overwhelming evidence that the worst impacts of climate change constitute one of the greatest social, environmental and economic threats to society. Issues such as health, housing, transport, waste, food production and equality are completely linked with environmental conditions. Taking action to reduce the worst impacts of climate change and addressing both environmental and social justice create benefits for society as a whole, specifically people at the margins of society. Third sector organisations are uniquely placed to reach the most disadvantaged and to empower them to play their part in creating sustainable communities. To achieve these benefits, we commit our organisation, group or project to a sustained, comprehensive and accountable response to the challenge of climate change. We recognise that we need to work in partnership with others across all sectors to communicate in inspiring and effective ways, and to help create or support progressive national policies. We accept that the need for action on climate change is inextricably bound to our work on environmental and social justice and as such we commit to taking positive steps to reduce the negative impact we may have on climate change, whilst encouraging similar action within the third sector and with those we work with. We therefore commit [the organisation] from this date ………………… to Publicly affirm the importance of urgent action to deliver behaviour change at all levels to combat climate change. Adopt public plans and appropriate strategies to reduce our carbon dioxide emissions (especially in energy use, transport, recycling, buying and in caring for our community) and to support climate change initiatives that facilitate social and environmental justice. We will make these plans public within a year. In addition we will ensure that they are monitored and that our progress is evaluated in a way that is clearly understood and easily accessible. Act as a leader in encouraging and enabling our members, service users and clients to adapt to the impact of climate change, to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions, take other relevant initiatives and to make public our commitment to action. We recognise the wide range of resources, skills, knowledge and experience, that may be required to make the changes in their lives and their communities. Support national legal targets for green house gas emissions and advocate for revenue from green tax schemes to be used in programmes that reduce carbon emissions as well as support environmental and social justice. Work with central and local government and others to advocate for, and support policies and initiatives for, environmental and social justice that will assist the UK to reach or exceed the national target to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 80% by 2050. Ensure that by acting with our partners, groups, members or communities and the third sector as a whole, we inform, inspire and encourage action as part of a wider movement that can make a real difference on climate change.
Signed by _______________________________________________ Director/Founder/Trustee/Project Leader |
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