Give a Gift
Looking for a birthday, wedding or holiday present which also helps the world? Buy a sustainable resource for populations of a developing country!
For example, invest in ICSD’s Faith Inspired Renewable Energy project which facilitates the development of solar and wind farms on faith-based lands. This brings renewable electricity to Africans, curbs climate change, and enables people to live sustainably. Your support decreases energy poverty and initiates economic development!
Want something more personal? Book an eco tour for a loved one! Start with an eco tour in the Holy Land which will feed your faith and mind!
Volunteer with People
Give back in a hands-on way! Do thorough research before you pay for an experience – make sure that an organization is honest, committed to sustainable development, and will put your skills to best use.
For example, if you have a business background, join TechnoServe. They work in many developing countries to build sustainable industries. They identify markets, develop capacity, create market connections, and promote better policy. It’s a great way to help locals succeed! There are appropriate ways to share the results of your volunteering. Watch RADI-AID’s video to learn how to publicize your travels with dignity.
Meet with Micro-Financing
Care about financial sustainability? Invest in micro financing with Small Enterprise Foundation (SEF), rated a standout charity by GiveWell, or Kiva.
How does it work?
With SEF, women are given enterprise micro credit. They join as a group, are assessed, and are then able to apply for loans. The loans support activities which give South African village women entrepreneurial growth. With Kiva, support clean energy, water and sanitation, and more. Borrowers apply for a loan and approval process; people can then lend money to the cause in a crowdfunding process.
Buy Fair Trade
Fair Trade is a partnership based on transparency and respect that seeks greater equity in international trade. It leads to sustainable development through better trading conditions and ensuring the rights of marginalized producers and workers – especially in developing countries.
When a product carries the FAIRTRADE mark, it means the producers and traders have met the Fairtrade Standards designed to address imbalanced trading powers, unstable markets, and other injustices in trade.
Common items include coffee, cocoa, tea, cotton and fruit. Food&Wine has a great list, and HERE are 12 stores for sustainable, fair trade items.