Conservation of the natural environment and climate change

The conservation of the natural environment and climate change are issues increasingly at the forefront of social, economic and political discussion. In this document, we break down the outcomes and indicators which can be used by social investors, charities, funders and social enterprises to measure the success of interventions in the environment.

Substantial evidence exists to demonstrate the negative effects of a deteriorating environment on individuals and communities. Similarly, scientists are actively working to understand the broader changes in our climate. Most agree that much of this is attributable to increased atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases produced by human activities.

In this document, we look at two major components of the environment: conservation and climate change. Conservation covers conservation of land or wildlife (biodiversity), conservation and consumption of resources, and waste, recycling, and harmful waste (including attention to air quality). Climate change refers to significant and lasting change in the statistical distribution of weather conditions over time. For the purposes of this overview, we cover aspects pertaining to human influence on this process. Interventions may well address both local conservation issues and global climate concerns as part of one strategy. Conservation and Climate Change also have components relating to education and behaviour, advocacy, public awareness, policy change, research and sector development, and environmental technology.

ABOUT THE OUTCOMES MAPS

This is one of 13 outcomes maps produced by Investing for Good in partnership with NPC, the SROI Network and Big Society Capital. Each map examines a particular issue area or domain, and aims to document the relevant outcomes and indicators that are currently being measured by charities, government, academics and practitioners working in this field.

Click here to see all the titles in the series.

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