Various groups advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples, while others concentrate on protected areas, local conservation initiatives, or adapting to and building resilience against climate change—especially in communities directly facing the impacts of the ongoing climate crisis.
Protect
As funding from national governments, such as the UK, dwindles, private philanthropic funders are gaining more influence and control.
These funders employ top experts, have extensive networks, and can bring people together around significant ideas and causes. However, with significant power comes a heightened responsibility.
Some funders are more accountable and introspective, supported by strong boards and robust checks and balances.
While some have been active for many years and have a proven track record of learning and evaluating their efforts, others are relatively new and still establishing themselves.
This diverse ecosystem plays a crucial role in aiding global efforts to protect and rejuvenate the environment and tackle the climate crisis.
Generously
Nevertheless, there remains a significant need for increased funding from a broader range of donors to address current challenges.
Some existing funders are actively working to engage their peers, aiming to boost philanthropic participation from areas like the Middle East or Silicon Valley.
Rutger Bregman, a Dutch historian, in his 2025 BBC Reith Lecture series titled “Moral Revolution,” advocates for a greater moral vision among the wealthiest individuals.
This includes those with ample resources who have not yet considered substantial contributions towards climate initiatives or other crucial causes like health and education.
Spirit
There is an increasing trend among wealthy philanthropists to make significant donations to universities aligned with their values, promoting learning and research in specific areas of interest.
Reflecting the Resurgence spirit, it is evident that small initiatives can be impactful. Many potent and genuine environmental efforts worldwide are funded through crowdsourcing and often operate on minimal budgets.
This includes civil movements in both the global south and north, public campaigns that resonate with the times and drive lasting change, and grassroots efforts that are actively shaping current events.
Ideals
In the UK, wildlife trusts and local restoration projects frequently depend on modest local-government grants and the generosity of the British public, which remains dedicated to environmental protection and addressing the climate emergency despite the widespread cost of living concerns.
In times of significant need and societal division, collaboration within the climate and environment movements is paramount to securing essential funding for urgent work.
The role of philanthropists is increasingly vital, with hope that those already contributing generously in the UK and globally will continue their support.
We also aspire for many more foundations, family offices, individuals, and others who share these commitments to join in. The moment to act is now.
This Author
Edward Davey leads the World Resources Institute in the UK and is the author of Given Half a Chance: Ten Ways to Save the World. This article is an updated version originally published in Resurgence & Ecologist magazine.
