Maximising the Environmental Sustainability of our Work

In line with Commitment #2, and the principle of “do no harm,” we must work to maximise the environmental sustainability of our work. Organisations are looking into how to incorporate environment friendly programming and nature-based solutions in their humanitarian programming cycles. Furthermore, the commitment also indicates that organisations will measure and significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, in line with global goals. Supporting high-quality emission reduction projects to offset unavoidable emissions will complement reduction efforts, but will not be considered a substitute for such efforts. Further, organisations are looking at how they can responsibly manage and use natural resources, including water, and reduce and properly manage the waste generated in their premises and by their programmes.

On 24 November 2021, ICVA and PHAP held a webinar with an aim to share an overview and initial lessons learned on some of the following questions:

• How can we incorporate more environment-friendly practices into our programming?
• What are some of the nature-based solutions being used by organisations in their programming?
• How can NGOs reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, manage and use responsibly natural resources?
• What are some of the requirements and standards being put in place by donors? What support will be available from donors?

Please find the link to Guidance on the Commitment #2 of the Charter.