The COVID-19 pandemic has tragically highlighted our interdependency with the natural world and how what happens in one part of the world has a dramatic effect on all of us. Whilst there is concern about the environment and in particular the threat of global warming amongst philanthropists, the reality is that a very small amount of funding and effort is dedicated towards environmental causes.   

Working in collaboration is not optional when it comes to the environment. There are few systemic issues such as climate change, wildlife conservation and healthy oceans. To make headway, we must work together; philanthropists, government, business and society, AND dedicate more philanthropic resources to tackle these interlinked challenges.   

At this year’s Synergos Global Gathering on October 29, we will be launching a Collaborative Community for members who care passionately for the environment and climate change – and who want to learn and collaborate with one another to meet these challenges. This will be the start of the journey and we hope you will join us and one another, as we not only create a space for discussion but also a space for action and collaboration.   

We will feature two exciting and action-oriented initiatives currently underway and led by Global Philanthropists Circle members – and you can be a part of them.   

Economic Sustainability in the Amazon Rainforest  

There are few more emotive issues that protecting our rainforests. For too long they have been the target of environmental vandalism with local people persecuted and driven out, and long-term solutions few and far between.   

At this year’s gathering, next-gen GPC members will present a Collective Action proposal to promote a sustainable local economy and communities in the Amazon rainforest so we can protect this precious global resource. You will have the opportunity to join these younger philanthropists who have carefully collaborated for the last 18 months on this innovative sustainability project in partnership with leading environmental organization Conexus.  

Mobilising Sovereign and Institutional Capital to Tackle Climate Change  

To truly ‘move the needle’ to switch to zero carbon economies, significant financial investment as well as government support are required. We need to unlock not just billions but trillions to make progress in the next 10 years before temperatures rise to a level which could be devastating for many parts of the world.  

Global Philanthropists Circle and Synergos board member Uday Khemka has been working with the world’s leading sovereign and institutional wealth funds to deploy their capital into climate friendly investments, in conjunction with governments to make the step change needed. At the Synergos Global Gathering, Uday will share his vision for collaborating with these vitally important organisations and how members can join him to put in place the intellectual and financial resources to make this a reality.   

Further details on both initiatives will be sent to members in advance.