Each year the job of environmental nonprofit leaders becomes more challenging as more and more people wake up and realize that our world is changing fast.
I wanted to write this to show just how BIG their jobs are and suggest that we all seek out a group to extend a helping hand. Which current issue listed below speaks to you the most?
There is a direct correlation between the severity of the problem and the size of the organization. Tackling these issues takes more money, more volunteers, and more members. They are faced with big decisions every day around having the capacity to offer the public what they want and need.
These leaders have a mission to serve you and your community. Sometimes they just need a little of your attention.
Years ago, I sat on the board of directors of a national environmental nonprofit organization. I challenged them to seek out their local small groups (we were from all over the US) and give a simple donation – anonymously.
Since I ran a very small, rural local organization, I knew how difficult it was to just buy postage stamps. I felt that the others on the board were only there to put a line on their resume. They bragged about how much their company donated to the larger nonprofits each year.
While it takes all sizes of organizations to solve issues, let’s not forget the struggles of local groups working on issues in your backyard.
Based on the current environmental challenges and trends, some of the top problems faced by environmental nonprofit leaders in 2023 include:
Climate Change:
Climate change continues to be a major issue and poses significant challenges for environmental nonprofit leaders, as they work to mitigate the impact of greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices.
Biodiversity Loss:
The loss of biodiversity is a growing concern, with many species facing extinction due to habitat destruction, pollution, and other human activities. Environmental nonprofit leaders need to work to protect and preserve biodiversity through conservation efforts.
Plastic Pollution:
Plastic pollution is a major environmental issue, with plastic waste contaminating oceans, harming marine life, and contributing to global warming. Nonprofit leaders work to raise awareness of the issue and promote sustainable alternatives.
Deforestation:
Deforestation continues to be a major environmental issue, with significant impacts on climate change and biodiversity loss. Environmental nonprofit leaders work to protect and restore forests through conservation and reforestation efforts.
Water Scarcity:
The scarcity of water is becoming an increasingly pressing issue in many parts of the world, with climate change exacerbating the problem. Nonprofit leaders work to promote sustainable water use and conservation practices.
Air Pollution:
Air pollution is a growing environmental concern, with significant impacts on human health and the environment. Nonprofit leaders work to promote clean air policies and advocate for reducing emissions.
Sustainable Agriculture:
Sustainable agriculture is important for promoting food security and reducing environmental impacts. Nonprofit leaders work to promote sustainable agriculture practices and support small-scale farmers.
Renewable Energy:
Transitioning to renewable energy sources is a key strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Nonprofit leaders work to promote the adoption of renewable energy sources on rooftops and entire communities.
Environmental Justice:
Environmental justice is an important issue, with marginalized communities often bearing the brunt of environmental problems. Nonprofit leaders work to address environmental injustices and promote equitable solutions.
Political Resistance:
Despite the growing awareness of environmental issues, there is often political resistance to implementing policies and practices that promote sustainability. Nonprofit leaders work to overcome political resistance and promote environmental sustainability.
How you can help:
This is a call to action for every one of you.
- If you don’t have the time, how about a donation?
- If you don’t have the funds, how about an hour or two a week?
- Find out what it is they need the most – it may just be office supplies or help to pay the electric bills.
- Recruit a few of your coworkers/friends/family and donate what your local organization needs the most.
- Praise the leaders for all their hard work.
And remember – do it out of the kindness in your heart for your family, friends, neighbors, and their families. It is amazing what a diverse group of people can accomplish. There is a lot at stake here.
“Act as though your world depends on it because your world does depend on it.”
~ Al Gore
