Preserving the Environment: IRB’s Commitment to Sustainable Humanitarian Action

The Urgent Need for Environmental Protection

Climate change is not just an environmental issue—it is a humanitarian crisis. As extreme weather events become more frequent, vulnerable communities, including refugees and displaced populations, bear the brunt of its devastating impact. Rising temperatures, floods, droughts, and resource scarcity fuel displacement, conflict, and suffering.

At IRB, we recognize that environmental sustainability is integral to humanitarian aid. Our mission goes beyond immediate relief—we aim to foster resilience by integrating sustainable practices into our operations. By reducing our environmental footprint and enhancing climate adaptation strategies, we strengthen our capacity to protect those most at risk.

IRB’s Environmental Sustainability Framework

To achieve lasting impact, IRB has committed to two core environmental objectives:

• Minimizing our ecological footprint – Implementing sustainable operational practices, reducing emissions, and promoting responsible resource use.
• Addressing climate-driven displacement – Designing programs that help affected communities adapt to climate change while ensuring the sustainability of humanitarian efforts.

Sustainable Operations: Reducing IRB’s Environmental Footprint

A critical step in IRB’s sustainability journey is understanding and mitigating our environmental impact. We have conducted baseline assessments to identify key contributors to our carbon footprint, focusing on three priority areas:

To drive long-term change, IRB is embedding sustainability into decision-making processes at all organizational levels. Through staff training, policy updates, and technological innovations, we are fostering an eco-conscious culture across our global operations.

Climate Adaptation: Supporting Displacement-Affected Communities

The effects of climate change disproportionately impact displaced communities, many of whom reside in climate-vulnerable regions. IRB’s approach to climate adaptation includes:

• Renewable Energy Solutions – Expanding access to clean energy for displaced populations to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
• Climate-Resilient Livelihoods – Promoting regenerative agriculture, water conservation, and sustainable economic activities that enhance food security.
• Carbon Sequestration Initiatives – Exploring opportunities to integrate carbon-binding solutions into humanitarian programming.

To measure and improve our impact, IRB leverages cutting-edge environmental assessment tools, such as the Nexus Environmental Assessment Tool (NEAT+). This data-driven approach ensures that our programs are both effective and environmentally responsible.

Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing

IRB believes in collective action to address environmental challenges. We are committed to sharing lessons learned and best practices with humanitarian partners, governments, academic institutions, and the private sector. By fostering cross-sector collaboration, we aim to drive systemic change and enhance the sustainability of global humanitarian efforts.

Looking Ahead: A Greener Future for Humanitarian Aid

Our journey toward sustainability is ongoing. IRB remains steadfast in integrating environmental responsibility into every aspect of our work, ensuring that our humanitarian response not only meets immediate needs but also builds a foundation for a sustainable future.

We invite partners, donors, and stakeholders to join us in advancing climate-conscious humanitarian action. Together, we can create a world where displaced communities thrive in harmony with the environment.