We recognise the special contribution that third sector organisations can and do make to the efforts across the country in tackling climate change.

Each organisation can look at its own activities to see how to reduce its own emissions of greenhouse gases, increase energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy.

Organisations in the third sector pioneer new ways of working and innovative ideas for engaging diverse communities and bringing them together to tackle climate change. The third sector has a good track record in innovation – the public and private sector can often learn from this.

Third sector organisations connect and engage with hundreds of thousands of people, supporting them as individuals, and mobilising them as a growing environmental movement. Around 40% of national greenhouse gas emissions result from decisions taken by individuals, who you can inform and encourage to make low carbon choices, particularly around travel and energy in the home. As trusted organisations with established and growing audiences, you are particularly powerful communicators, giving a strong voice to all those concerned about climate change, and campaigning for solutions. The sector can become as much an environmental movement as a social one. From the power of the increasing numbers of volunteers - now above 20 million - to your ability to inspire community activism on climate change - in the third sector you know citizens are on your side in the commitment to environmental justice.

The Third Sector Declaration on Climate Change signals the welcome commitment of the sector as a whole to act now on climate change by reducing carbon dioxide emissions. We very much support the contribution which your own organisation will be making as a signatory to this Declaration. Together we can tackle climate change.