Explore nonprofits dedicated to climate action this Giving Tuesday. Your donations can create meaningful change in the fight against climate change and help restore our planet.
In a time when the climate crisis feels overwhelming, it's easy to feel powerless. Fortunately, numerous nonprofits are actively working to combat these issues. Donating to these organizations can help ease our collective concern about the environment. This Giving Tuesday, November 30, consider showing your support for these impactful nonprofits throughout the year.
Here's a selection of 10 committed organizations tackling climate change. Some focus on policy changes to curb fossil fuel use, while others are dedicated to protecting rainforests or restoring vital ocean ecosystems. We've also included options suitable for young activists, making it a family-friendly initiative.
These charities have been vetted through Charity Navigator and GuideStar, trusted platforms that evaluate nonprofits to ensure your contributions are effective. For a climate-specific focus, check out Giving Green.
Clean Air Task Force (US)
The Clean Air Task Force is dedicated to removing carbon from the atmosphere. Their efforts encompass changing business practices, advancing technology, and impacting policy on a national level. They advocate for strategies to lead us toward a zero-emissions future. Given that the U.S. is the largest historical carbon emitter, their work is crucial.
Carbon180 (US)
Carbon180 encourages national policies that support the development of carbon removal technologies. These innovations effectively extract carbon dioxide from the air and sequester it, with initiatives like reforestation efforts across various land jurisdictions.
350.org (International)
Established by activist Bill McKibben in 2008, 350.org aims for a shift to 100% renewable energy while eliminating oil and gas ventures. With a global presence in 189 countries, they mobilize grassroots efforts to raise climate awareness through educational programs. They have garnered a gold star from GuideStar.
Project Drawdown (International)
Project Drawdown focuses on achieving the point where greenhouse gas concentrations start to decrease. They evaluate and promote global solutions for climate issues, serving as a key resource for cities and organizations. For instance, Drawdown Georgia aims to enhance its state's natural carbon sinks.
Union of Concerned Scientists (US)
This team of experts conducts research on pressing global challenges and provides scientific recommendations for combating climate change, promoting sustainable food practices, and addressing nuclear threats. They also expose misinformation from special interest groups in the fossil fuel industry.
The Climate Group (International)
With a mission to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, The Climate Group holds organizations accountable for their climate promises. Partnering with 300 businesses and 260 governments, they focus on critical sectors such as energy and transportation. For example, they are helping accelerate the transition to electric transport by 2030.
Oceana (International)
Oceana is the largest global organization devoted to ocean conservation. Since its inception in 2001, Oceana has campaigned for the protection of species like the North Atlantic right whale, the end of illegal fishing, and reducing plastic pollution threatening marine life.
The Ocean Foundation (International)
Seagrass beds absorb carbon dioxide 15 times quicker than tropical forests and mitigate ocean acidification. The Ocean Foundation is dedicated to restoring these vital ecosystems by planting seagrass and protecting coastal wetlands. Their projects also include species protection and plastic redesign.
NAACP Environmental and Climate Justice Program (US)
This program addresses the intersection of climate change and racial justice, advocating for the protection of marginalized communities from environmental harm. In the U.S., pollution from coal plants disproportionately impacts communities of color, leading to severe health consequences. They campaign for civil rights and renewable energy solutions.
Rainforest Action Network (US)
Founded in 1985, this organization focuses on conserving tropical rainforests, preventing climate destruction, and supporting Indigenous rights. By combating deforestation, they help protect numerous species at risk of extinction, including the orangutan and Sumatran tiger. Their work is critical for preserving the Amazon and Indonesian rainforests.
Action for the Climate Emergency (US)
This organization educates youth about climate issues and inspires activism among young people. If you have teens who care about the planet, ACE encourages civic participation and promotes voting and local climate initiatives.
Other youth-led movements include Fridays for Future, inspired by Greta Thunberg, and the Sunrise Movement, which mobilizes youth for climate action. For younger children, Jane Goodall's Roots and Shoots program motivates kids to create positive changes in their communities.
