Public engagement has historically been a main force of change.
Our work on climate and sustainability action creates global connectedness and fosters joint engagement. It links people, consumers, faith-based actors, civil society partners and the private sector in Denmark and the countries we operate in.
Consumption dictates the market, therefore engaging people to reduce overconsumption, for example by buying second-hand clothes or furniture, or minimizing food waste has a great impact on the environment and sends a signal to policymakers, companies and other actors about consumers’ interest in more sustainable lifestyles.
Also politically, engagement is crucial. When people engage in a debate or issue, politicians and decision makers are more likely to listen. It is therefore an important aim for DanChurchAid to support engagement of people in our agendas and projects on climate change. Not only is it important to engage people to change behavior towards more sustainable consumption patterns but it is also important to engage people into political debates to show policymakers that their constituents care for and demand enhanced support for climate action both in the Global North and the Global South.
Besides communicating about our projects through reports or social media, we manage over 100 secondhand stores and six Wefood stores. They have an annual profit of DKK 30 million that is allocated to support our projects helping people in vulnerable situations and people living in poverty. We have a high level of engagement and support in Denmark, with more than 20.000 volunteers and supporters, including our Parish collection volunteers.
