Climate change
There is now a general consensus that the way our economies have developed is seriously damaging the environment at a pace that has previously been largely under-estimated. The Stern report published in February 2007 predicted that if that if no action was taken on carbon emissions, the rise in global temperatures would lead to millions of people being permanently displaced and could reduce global economic output by up to 10% in the next 50 years.
What are the implications?
- Increase in severe weather conditions, changes to ecosystems and natural disasters.
- Pressure on health services as a result of climate related illness.
- Increased global population movement as large numbers of the world are permanently or temporarily displaced becoming environmental refugees.
- Reduction to global economic output and changes to global markets impacting on the performance of the UK economy.
- Worldwide challenges to achieve more carbon efficient economies.
- Increase in international campaigns and movements around climate change.
- Government legislation that imposes regulation on consumer behaviour and the operating context of all sectors or green taxation.
- Role for local government to secure support for changes in behaviour and lifestyles, possibly facilitated by the Sustainable Communities Bill.
- Changes in procurement practice at both local and central government level as shown by the government’s recent sustainable procurement plan.
- Increasing interest in ethical living and consumerism.
- Pressure on the VCS to re-examine practices and policies and demonstrate it is behaving in an environmentally responsible way.
- Environmental awareness requiring high levels of investment may impact on resources available for core activities.
- Risk that the VCS is left behind as it is unable to invest up-front in reducing carbon emissions.
- Decreased personal mobility if restrictions on travel are imposed.
- Increase in numbers of volunteers who want to work with environmental organisations.
Moving forward
Much emphasis has been put on individual action to improve people's environmental footprint.
- How can your organisation capitalise on this enthusiasm to encourage collective action?
Climate change and environmental responsibility concerns organisations of all sectors. Individuals are increasingly aware and critical of organisations that don’t practice what they preach meaning they will be less likely to support your organisation or donate money.
- Is your organisation 'walking the talk'?
There is increasing pressure from funders and the public for organisations to be environmentally sustainable and responsible.
- Does your organisation understand the impact its services and practices may have on the environment?
- Has your organisation got the reporting systems in place to demonstrate and communicate this?
Private sector organisations may have the resources to better invest in ethical and environmental practices.
- How can your organisation get ahead of the game? Could you invest in an eco-audit of your services?
The impact of climate change has resulted in a recent series of new government initiatives and legislation to achieve sustainable communities.
- The government's Sustainable Action Procurement Plan will impact on public service delivery and on the VCOs that provide public services. Is your organisation amongst them?
- The Sustainable Development Bill should provide more power to local communities to influence local strategies on sustainable communities. How will you ensure that you are part of this process?
Want to know more?
Stern Review: The Economics of Climate Change
Published by: HM Treasury – a Government department
Date: 2007
Format: PDF
What is it? An independent economic review of climate change for the Government, assessing the evidence and outlining the impacts.
How useful is this? The first part of the review considers the economic costs of the impacts of climate change, and the costs and benefits of action to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases that cause it. It concludes that the benefits of strong, early action considerably outweigh the costs but also points out that given that climate change is happening, measures to help people adapt to it are essential. The second half considers the policy challenges involved in managing the transition to a low-carbon economy and in ensuring that societies can adapt to the consequences of climate change that can no longer be avoided.
Other comments:
Positive Energy: Harnessing people power to prevent climate change
Published by: IPPR – a left of centre think tank
Date: 200
Format: PDF Summary Report, full report available to purchase
What is it? A report suggesting policies, techniques and communications approaches for promoting
behaviour change of the public to help mitigate climate change.
How useful is this? This report looks at the role individuals play in mitigating climate change and the importance of influencing behaviour to encourage more energy efficient lifestyles. It considers: what behaviours need to change; what the public are already doing about climate change; what their attitudes are towards it; and the role of communications. It then looks at behaviour change, considering barriers, approaches and influences, before making recommendations.
Other comments:
I will if you will: towards sustainable consumption
Published by: National Consumer Council and the Sustainable Development Commission – an independent Government watchdog??
Date: 2006
Format: PDF
What is it? This report sets out the benefits and possibility of a shift to more sustainable lifestyles, as an essential part of tackling environmental issues, including practical solutions and recommendations for the UK Government.
How useful is this? A detailed report that argues a shift to more sustainable lifestyles is both positive and possible, and that action needs to be taken to create a supportive framework for people to take up more sustainable habits and choices: I will if you will. Chapters 1-3 look at sustainable development and the relevant policies for people, businesses and government respectively. Chapter 4 looks at catalysts for change and makes government recommendations in four areas:homes; food; getting around; and holiday travel. Chapter 5 discusses the importance of showing people they are part of something bigger. Chapter 6 reflects on the issues and discusses the long-term challenges.
Other comments:
Discuss
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