Promotes climate policies for a net-zero emissions future.
The European Climate Foundation (ECF) is a major philanthropic initiative dedicated to promoting climate and energy policies that aim to achieve a net-zero greenhouse gas emissions society by 2050. The ECF works closely with over 700 partner organizations across Europe to foster climate action and build a better future. The ECF focuses on eight interconnected areas, known as "big bets," which include fossil-free energy, European and national just transitions, citizen engagement and cultural change, clean transport solutions, Europe's industrial transformation, shifting the financial system, and land, food, and nature. The ECF is funded exclusively by philanthropic sources and does not accept funding from corporate or government sources. The foundation's annual budget is approximately €25 million, which is primarily used to grant funds to NGOs and think tanks engaged in meaningful policy change. In 2021, the ECF awarded 1177 grants to 713 organizations. Recent projects and initiatives supported by the ECF include the establishment of platforms such as CarbonBrief and the 2050 Pathways Platform, as well as efforts to promote community-driven energy transitions and energy-efficient buildings across Europe.