By Chris Chaleunrath
As we receive more frequent exposure to bad news on the environmental front -- from record-breaking temperatures to soaring pollution -- one would think that charitable support to environmental causes would also be record breaking.
Sadly, it is the opposite.
Do you support the environment? Then you are also an endangered species.
At a time when our planet is facing unprecedented environmental challenges, from climate change to biodiversity loss, 2023 statistics have charitable donations to the environment near the bottom of the sector at 3% of all giving.
Moreover, the 2022 Giving USA report has cast a spotlight on a concerning trend: a decline in donations to environmental and animal-focused organizations. Giving to this crucial sector decreased by 1.6 percent between 2021 and 2022. When adjusted for inflation, the decline becomes even more alarming, standing at 8.9 percent.
While the national statistics reflect a troubling trend, it's equally vital to emphasize the impact of supporting local environmental groups, such as the Ventura Land Trust (VLT) and the SB/Ventura Chapter of the Sierra Club. Local organizations are the unsung heroes working tirelessly to protect and enhance the natural beauty of our communities.
Giving to local groups ensures that conservation efforts are tailored to the unique needs and challenges of a specific region. Ventura Land Trust, for example, plays a crucial role in preserving and restoring the landscapes of Ventura County. By supporting such local entities, donors can witness firsthand the positive changes in their communities. Local organizations are deeply rooted in the areas they serve, fostering a sense of connection and shared responsibility among community members.
The donations have a direct and immediate impact on the quality of life for residents. VLT and the Sierra Club focus on improving public access to open spaces, enhancing recreational opportunities, promoting environmental education and real-world improvements, such as a cleaner more natural watershed, reducing pollution, nurturing native plants and enhancing the outdoors for wildlife.
These initiatives not only contribute to the well-being of the community but also create a sense of pride and ownership in the natural treasures of the region.
In conclusion, as we recognize the urgency for increased donations to environmental causes overall, let's not overlook the critical role of supporting our local environmental groups.
National trends may highlight the decline in overall funding, but directing resources to organizations embedded in our communities ensures a more personalized and impactful approach to environmental conservation.
By supporting both national and local initiatives, we can collectively contribute to the global and local well-being of our planet.
It's not just a donation; it's an investment in the resilience and vitality of our home, Earth, and the communities we call our own.
https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/billions/events/US/1980-2023?disasters[]=all-disasters
https://nonprofitssource.com/online-giving-statistics/
Chris Chaleunrath is Development Director of the Ventura Land Trust.