The Institute of Fundraising (IoF) has announced an eight-point action plan to help tackle the climate emergency within the fundraising sector.
IoF's board of trustees has approved a series of eight commitments following a consultation with members and a roundtable on fundraising and the environment.
The commitments include embedding the climate emergency as a theme in its work, providing more support to charities on stepping away from partnerships if they have environmental concerns, and collaborating with the charity sector for a stronger voice.
IoF chief executive, Peter Lewis announced the commitments stating: “We all have a responsibility to deliver change."
“We have been reducing the environmental impact of the Institute over the last few years. But we need to do more.
“As fundraisers we have specific opportunities to make essential change. Whether it’s in the choices we make on how we fundraise, the donations we accept or refuse, or through the engagement we have with millions of people who support and donate to charities, we can be part of the of the change that’s needed. Each of our solutions might be different but one thing is clear: business as usual is not an option.”
The eight commitments include:
1. Embedding the climate emergency as a continuing priority in the IoF's work, including reviewing its own behaviours and practices, led by its internal Green Group
2. Establishing a task-group of environmentally-committed and expert members who will consult with members and suppliers and guide the IoF on policy change and action.
3. Renewing and refreshing its guidance to ensure that it includes the latest and most useful resources to help fundraisers improve their environmental impact.
4. Providing more support to members on when they can refuse donations, and step away from partnerships, when they have environmental concerns.
5. Engaging with the IoF's charity sector partners to ask for a joint approach and consistent messaging across the charity sector.
6. Working with the Fundraising Regulator to review any changes needed to the Code of Fundraising Practice on environmental fundraising practices and issues.
7. Implementing an updated environmental policy for IoF’s events and conferences.
8. Working with media partners to make magazine packaging more environmentally-friendly.
