The climate crisis is the most pressing issue of our time and it affects us all, no matter our age. HelpAge recognises the impact that climate change has on older people and their communities, and the importance of addressing this issue in order to protect and improve their lives.

Working with network members and partners, HelpAge has been supporting older people affected by humanitarian emergencies, like natural disasters since the day the organisation was born. During times of crises and disasters, we make sure that the needs of older people are taken into account. Making sure older people get help when needed and can affect change is a big part of why we exist.

As the climate crisis intensifies, we pledge our commitment to continue to take action to confront this emergency.

Working with network members and partners, HelpAge has been supporting older people affected by humanitarian emergencies, like natural disasters since the day the organisation was born. Making sure older people get help when needed and can affect change is a big part of why we exist.

As the climate crisis intensifies, we pledge to continue to take action to confront this emergency, with these four commitments:

• We’re showing the world how older people are tackling the climate crisis. We’re challenging assumptions about older people and telling the real stories of community leaders, everyday individuals and older people’s associations who care about climate change and are taking action.

• When natural disasters hit, we make sure older people are included in the response. There is often a disproportionate impact of natural disasters and climatic stresses on older people – and yet their needs are often overlooked. We work with governments and organisations to make sure older people’s voices are heard, and support is there to help them rebuild their lives and move forward.

• We’re bringing younger and older together to prevent and adapt to disasters. By involving older people in climate initiatives, communities enrich their knowledge, become more resilient and reduce the impact of the climate crisis.

• We’re reducing our carbon footprint. Leading by example means taking new ambitious measures to reduce our impact on the environment. By limiting air travel and changing the way we work, we are committing to reducing our carbon emissions by at least 50% by 2030.