Introduction to Climate Change, Environment and its Funding Possibilities
Global climate change (also known as global warming) is an urgent and complex issue that has—in the last decade—become one of the most prominent concerns for both public and private institutions. Feeling the need to address this critical concern, governments, private entities and multilateral organizations have begun to make climate change part of their funding agenda.
Not only are the wealthiest nations historically responsible for the majority of the greenhouse gases existing in the atmosphere, they also continue to emit more greenhouse gases per capita than the world average. Recognizing their responsibilities to address this global issue, developed countries are beginning to pool greater resources into climate change adaptation and mitigation activities, especially at the international level.
From 2008 to 2011, international giving from developed countries on renewable energies alone rose from 221 million to 1.2 billion USD. As climate-related issues exacerbate, international funding for climate and sustainable development projects will continue to flow. This increased spending in both private and public sectors on climate change provides great funding opportunities for NGOs addressing climate change.
Despite its prevalence in the public’s consciousness, climate change is a complex and multi-faceted issue and NGOs must consider all aspects of the problem in order to best present their project to potential funders. While funding for climate change may be abundant, it is sometimes difficult to access.
In this guide, we provide basic tips for NGOs to understand climate change funding, along with a detailed list of the top bilateral, multilateral, and foundation funders in this field. For more information on preparing a great climate change project proposal, please visit our proposal writing for climate change resource guide here.
