How the global fight against poverty and climate change are inextricably linked – and what can we do about it 

Often there is the misconception that we must choose between addressing poverty or climate change. Or worse still, that these two major world issues are not linked. Yet, the reality is quite the opposite. We can and should confront both challenges at the same time. 

It is no surprise that the effects of climate change are widespread, impacting our environment, economies and people all over the world. For years we have seen extreme weather destroy homes and livelihoods, and it is disproportionately impacting those who have done the least to cause it, especially in Muslim-majority countries. 

For the world’s poorest, floods, droughts and wildfires are more than just natural disasters caused by climate change; they also serve as catalysts amplifying existing vulnerabilities and keeping them in a vicious cycle of abject poverty.  

Countries in the Horn of Africa, for example, account for just 0.1% of all global emissions. Yet, they are among the most vulnerable to extreme weather-related disasters, such as floods or droughts. This impact threatens to worsen already existing poverty and inequality, which has far-reaching consequences such as increasing food insecurity, instability, conflict over scarce resources, and mass displacement. It is no wonder that the UN has described climate change as a ‘threat multiplier’. 

Climate change is indeed a major cause of humanitarian disasters and human suffering, global displacement, health inequalities and severe food shortages – all of which place increased pressure on humanitarian aid organisations.  Well-coordinated efforts against climate change have the potential to save and transform lives in the global fight against poverty. 

So, what can we do about it? 

The good news is that there is still hope for safeguarding the future of our planet and people. However, as the effects of climate change become more pronounced, the urgency to act is increasing.   

Given the direct impact of the climate crisis on their work, Muslim-led charities operating in climate-vulnerable countries are uniquely positioned to lead in this transformation. Here are some practical steps to take: 

Educate your donor base 

Undoubtedly, charities rely on the generosity of donors to carry out their impactful work. Therefore, it is our responsibility to educate donors about the importance of climate action in addressing global poverty and helping those in need. Only with the backing of the donor base can we begin to champion sustainable policies and practices within our communities and build resilience through sustainable aid delivery.  

Working alongside vulnerable communities  

We know that the climate emergency is exacerbating an already challenging job for Muslim-led charities, like many others, who are on the ground and responding with humanitarian aid to those worst hit by climate induced disasters. But such short term ‘fixes’ are often unsustainable in supporting vulnerable communities in the long term. 

Charities must be working towards lasting solutions to help those at risk build climate resilience before disasters strike. This might involve investing in innovative sustainable aid projects, such as through providing renewable energy, early warning systems relating to anticipatory action or crop regeneration programmes that safeguard against extreme floods or droughts. 

By empowering communities to be at the forefront of their climate resilience, we can begin to transition away from short term relief efforts and help address both poverty and climate change at the same time. 

Doing your part to operate sustainably 

Each organisation should be making an effort towards a sustainable future. Building positive habits of reducing energy use in the office, recycling correctly, and reducing food waste among other things is a great way to begin operating sustainably as an organisation.  

Fortunately, in the age of technology, there are many online resources to help guide you on this journey – including our free The Sacred Trust: climate change awareness guide. The key takeaway here is to not underestimate how our individual actions can collectively contribute to meaningful change. 

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Many of our member organisations and Muslim-led charities alike are actively working towards providing long term sustainable aid for disadvantaged communities across the world. If you are part of a Muslim-led charity or organisation and are interested in sustainable aid, please reach out at [email protected].