Foundations Respond to the Climate Crisis: More Alarm Than Action

by: Kyle Anderson
June 20, 2022
A jungle burning with a sky filled with smoke

In recent years, the urgent need to address climate change has become increasingly prominent, prompting growing calls for assistance from charitable endowments and family foundations. Recognizing this need, the Hewlett Foundation commissioned The Center for Effective Philanthropy (CEP) to conduct a study on the perspectives of foundation and nonprofit leaders regarding climate change. The CEP, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the effectiveness of individual and institutional donors, provides valuable data, feedback, programs, and insights.

The report compiled by CEP offers fascinating insights and raises thought-provoking questions. Notably, the data reveals that 89% of foundation leaders recognize climate change as an incredibly urgent problem, yet many non-climate funders perceive it as beyond the scope of their mission and resources. Additionally, the report sheds light on the relatively limited grantmaking efforts by foundations in tackling climate change, while also highlighting doubts among foundation leaders regarding the overall effectiveness of climate philanthropy.

Read the full report here.

Given the high stakes involved, this report may serve as a spark engaging discussions within your foundation. Exploring the full report will provide a deeper understanding of where private foundations stand as a sector in addressing the issue of climate change.

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