Strategic Focus on Climate
At its September 2023 meeting of the Board of Directors, Maine Community Foundation adopted climate as an initiative, putting the full muscle of our organization – from grants and investments to our partnerships, collaborations and advocacy – toward a better climate future for Maine.
Due to the significant impact climate change is having on Maine’s economy, human health, biodiversity and many other aspects of life, Governor Mills created the Maine Climate Council, which in 2020 developed a comprehensive four-year plan called Maine Won't Wait. The plan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, avoid the costs of inaction, foster economic opportunity and ensure climate action benefits all Maine people.
MaineCF President and CEO Deborah Ellwood sits on the council, which consists of scientists, industry leaders, bipartisan local and state officials and engaged citizens. The council is now in the process of updating the action plan for the next four years.
Deborah also serves on the state’s Infrastructure Rebuilding and Resilience Commission to evaluate climate impacts and identify areas of short- and long-term response to recent storms. The commission works closely with the Maine Climate Council to ensure our state can address current climate impacts affecting our state while strengthening the resilience of Maine's communities and infrastructure for the long term.
MaineCF is bringing our unique resources to the table to drive solutions that are aligned with the state’s climate action plan, specifically orienting our action toward:
- Strategy E: Protecting Maine’s Environment through conservation and restoration of natural, working and coastal resources
- Strategy F: Build Healthy & Resilient Communities
- Strategy H: Engage with Maine People & Communities
This work will build on past initiatives in land conservation and energy efficiency. Based on conversations and data from our needs assessment, we know that MaineCF staff, board members, fundholders and community stakeholders are enthusiastic about accelerating what we can do together in the years to come.
This page will continue to be updated. For more information, please contact Laura Lee, vice president of community impact.
