Organizational Sustainability at Welthungerhilfe

Sarah Shafik Welthungerhilfe

Sustainability at Welthungerhilfe

As an international humanitarian and development aid organization, we witness firsthand the impact of climate change in all the countries we work in. In line with this vision, Welthungerhilfe (WHH) integrates sustainability across all facets of our operations and programming. Guided by our first Sustainability Strategy and ambitious Implementation Plan, we are determined to drive transformative change within our organization and the communities we serve.

Sustainability Strategy

A reference manual designed to enhance the environmental sustainability of WHH's projects and operations

Download here

The Challenge

The need for sustainable development has never been more urgent. Severe weather events, rising temperatures, and environmental degradation threatens lives and livelihoods globally. In the communities we serve, these impacts are already devastating.

As a development and humanitarian aid organization, we recognize the responsibility of not only addressing these challenges externally but also examining and reducing our own environmental footprint. WHH is ready to lead by example, ensuring our operations, and programs align with the principles of sustainability.

Our Approach

Sustainability is commonly defined as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” (UN Brundtland Commission, 1987). At WHH, our sustainability strategy aligns with key international frameworks, guiding our efforts towards creating long-term, positive impacts in the communities we serve.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles

We actively mitigate the environmental impact of our operations by striving toward zero emissions and adopting sustainable practices in all areas of our work.

We contribute to social equity by promoting inclusivity, fostering diversity, and working to improve the well-being of vulnerable communities.

We ensure that our operations and financial practices adhere to the highest ethical standards, ensuring long-term sustainability in our approach.

Eine Frau in farbenfroher Kleidung steht mit einem landwirtschaftlichen Werkzeug auf einem Feld in Mali. — WHH prioritizes sustainability in its projects, for example by supporting smallholders in using resource-efficient farming methods. © Makavelk/Welthungerhilfe

With this strategy we are actively contributing to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of the United Nations - a set of 17 goals to end poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and tackle climate change and its far-reaching impacts. 

By signing the Climate and Environment Charter for Humanitarian Organizations in 2021, we have committed to strengthening our actions towards climate resilience. This includes a comprehensive approach to reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, promoting sustainable practices across our operations, and collaborating with stakeholders to drive climate action. As signatories of the Charter, we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards in environmental sustainability, ensuring that our actions align with our global commitments and that we continue to make measurable progress towards a sustainable future.

WHH's sustainability strategy – key areas of action

WHH takes a holistic approach to sustainability, integrating it across every aspect of our work. Our strategy focuses on two key pillars: Operations and Programming.

Reducing Carbon Emissions

Transitioning to green energy, optimizing fleet management, and minimizing flights. Prioritizing digitization, minimizing waste, and promoting recycling and upcycling principles.

Sustainable Supply Chains

Decentralizing procurement processes to reduce transport-related emissions and collaborating with suppliers to find environmentally friendly solutions.

Social Responsibility

Fostering an inclusive workplace, promoting equality and diversity, and ensuring employee well-being.

Sustainable Finance

Incorporate environmental, social, and ethical considerations into mainstream finance.

Environmental & Climate Sensitivity

Apply environmental and socio-economic standards and assess risks before implementation of programs.

Climate Resilience Portfolio

Proactive approach to climate mitigation and adaptation.

Advocacy

Raising awareness between climate change and food security.

Implementation and Accountability

Our Sustainability Strategy is supported by a comprehensive Implementation Plan, which outlines strategic objectives and actions in three phases.

Examples of our sustainability efforts

Baumsetzlinge auf einem offenen Transporter

Carbon Footprint

To reduce our environmental impact, we must first understand it. Each year, Welthungerhilfe calculates the carbon footprint of our operations across all our offices to track progress and identify reduction opportunities. This includes emissions from electricity use, vehicle fleet, travel, procurement, commuting, and waste. The results help us identify the biggest sources of emissions and guide our reduction efforts.

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Recycling in Sierra Leone – ein Mitarbeiter zeigt auf ein Schild, das das Recyclingprogramm erklärt

Waste Management

Welthungerhilfe is improving waste management to reduce pollution and promote a circular economy. Reducing landfill waste and single-use packaging is central to our approach. In our offices, we are implementing waste management systems including waste segregation, recycling, and responsible disposal. These practices not only protect ecosystems and public health but also raise awareness on responsible consumption. Together, they support our goal of minimizing the environmental impact of our operations.

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Solarization

To reduce dependency on fossil fuels, ensure reliable power supply in remote areas, and lower emissions, we are transitioning to solar power in our offices. Replacing diesel generators with clean solar energy cuts both greenhouse gas emissions and operational expenses and reduces the local air and noise pollution. Our aim is a more sustainable, cost-effective energy model that aligns with our core mission of zero hunger.

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Carbon Footprint

To reduce our environmental impact, we must first understand it. Each year, Welthungerhilfe calculates the carbon footprint of our operations across all our offices to track progress and identify reduction opportunities. This includes emissions from electricity use, vehicle fleet, travel, procurement, commuting, and waste. The results help us identify the biggest sources of emissions and guide our reduction efforts.

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Waste Management

Welthungerhilfe is improving waste management to reduce pollution and promote a circular economy. Reducing landfill waste and single-use packaging is central to our approach. In our offices, we are implementing waste management systems including waste segregation, recycling, and responsible disposal. These practices not only protect ecosystems and public health but also raise awareness on responsible consumption. Together, they support our goal of minimizing the environmental impact of our operations.

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Solarization

To reduce dependency on fossil fuels, ensure reliable power supply in remote areas, and lower emissions, we are transitioning to solar power in our offices. Replacing diesel generators with clean solar energy cuts both greenhouse gas emissions and operational expenses and reduces the local air and noise pollution. Our aim is a more sustainable, cost-effective energy model that aligns with our core mission of zero hunger.

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Sustainability at WHH is a collective effort. From senior management to staff in country offices, everyone has a role to play. Local sustainability focal points and a dedicated sustainability team drive these efforts. Through continuous monitoring, evaluation, and reporting, we ensure that our commitments remain impactful and adaptive.

WHH's sustainability concept going forward

As we move forward, WHH is committed to continuously improving and adapting our sustainability policy and practices, ensuring they remain effective and relevant. Our journey involves making strategic, measurable progress across our operations, while engaging with partners and communities to implement solutions that have a lasting impact. The sustainability of our operations and our work is crucial to achieving our mission and ensuring long-term positive outcomes.