M I N U T E S of the SEPTEMBER 2020 ROTARY FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
Environment Area of Focus Policy Statement and Implementation Plan
Statement: In decision 131, June 2020, the Trustees agreed to add the Environment as a seventh area of
focus and requested the Environmental Issues Task Force to draft a policy statements for this area of focus and the general secretary to develop the implementation plan. The general secretary presented proposed implementation plans across the organization in programs and grants, philanthropy, communications, and learning and development. The Environmental Issues Task Force presented a policy statement detailing the purpose, goals, parameters, and project eligibility for participation in this new area of focus.
DECISION: The Trustees approve the new area of focus policy statement (Appendix B)
Appendix B. Environment Area of Focus Policy Statement
Rotary supports activities that strengthen the conservation and protection of natural resources, advance environmental sustainability, and foster harmony between people and the environment.
Area of Focus Statement of Purpose, Goals, and Parameters for Eligibility The Rotary Foundation enables Rotary members to protect, preserve, and conserve the environment by:
1. Protecting and restoring land, coastal, marine, and freshwater resources
2. Enhancing the capacity of communities and local governments to support natural resource management and conservation
3. Supporting agroecology and sustainable agriculture, fishing, and aquaculture practices to improve ecological health
4. Addressing the causes of climate change and climate disruption and supporting solutions to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases
5. Strengthening the resilience of ecosystems and communities affected by climate change and climate disruption
6. Supporting education to promote behaviors that protect the environment
7. Advocating for the sustainable consumption of products and the environmentally sound management of byproducts to build a more resource-efficient economy
8. Addressing environmental justice issues and environmental public health concerns