Dear reader,
We have been concerned with climate change since long before the pandemic. On 13 June, we will vote in the referendum on the proposed CO2 Act. Some people think it goes too far, while for others it is just a start. One thing is clear: curbing global warming and meeting the climate goals set out in the Paris Agreement is going to be an enormous challenge. What role do foundations play here? In our view, a very active one. They are each committed in very different ways, from joint campaigns with business, to support for those directly affected, to working with volunteers to raise public awareness.
The world is not just becoming warmer, however. It is also becoming impoverished. As the climate changes, the diversity of nature is decreasing. The loss of habitats is threatening countless animal and plant species – and not just in distant countries or the vast oceans, but also directly on our doorstep. Charitable foundations and project owners are very active here too. Central concerns include preserving biodiversity and protecting habitats. In general, ever more organisations are focusing on environmental issues. According to StiftungSchweiz, twelve percent of new foundations set up in 2019 had a charitable purpose relating to protecting the environment. This is double the level of existing foundations focusing on this topic.
As we can see, then, philanthropy is playing a proactive role in two key areas affecting our future. Find out more in our reports.
I hope that you enjoy reading this issue.
Dr Peter Buss
Managing director and publisher
Philanthropy Services AG
