What Oxfam is doing

As an international relief and development organization dedicated to finding lasting solutions to poverty and injustice, Oxfam America is campaigning to create equitable solutions to the climate crisis. We are asking that the US go beyond cutting greenhouse gas emissions by providing financial assistance so that the most vulnerable communities here and abroad can adapt.

There is no time to waste. We have a crucial window of opportunity right now:

  • Members of Congress are developing a number of legislative proposals on climate change and energy. At key moments in the debate, Oxfam will call on our supporters to make sure that global warming legislation not only curbs our greenhouse gas emissions, but also provides financial assistance that helps poor communities here and around the world cope with the current and future impacts of climate change. With this kind of assistance, poor people can design and implement their own climate solutions, such as drought-resistant seeds and food banks in times of shortage, coastal tree barriers and raised homes during floods, and mosquito nets and health surveillance to prevent the spread of climate-related disease. Through this legislation, the US should also help developing countries reduce their own emissions.

Poor communities have the knowledge and experience to craft their own adaptation solutions. But they need the funding and ability to participate in shaping these responses. In order for these communities to adapt to climate change—indeed, in order for them to begin overcoming poverty—they must take early action to reduce their vulnerability and build their resilience to new and heightened risks.

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