As a UN observer organization, The ChariTree Foundation observes climate, ocean, and biodiversity discussions, with a focus on adaptation, environmental education, and children and youth, and contributes insights through writing.
Our Role as a UN Observer
As an observer within the UNFCCC and related global processes, The ChariTree Foundation participates in international meetings on climate change, oceans, and biodiversity, both in person and online.
Observer organizations do not negotiate or make formal decisions. Instead, they play a vital role in:
- Following negotiations and thematic discussions
- Engaging with delegates, scientists, and civil society
- Identifying gaps between policy commitments and implementation
- Bringing forward perspectives from communities and underrepresented groups
This role allows The ChariTree Foundation to contribute to a broader understanding of how global environmental processes connect to real-world challenges and solutions.
“As a UN observer with The ChariTree Foundation, I engage at the intersection of climate, oceans, and biodiversity—connecting global discussions with community-based solutions, with a focus on adaptation, resilience, environmental education, and children and youth.” — Andrea Koehle Jones
Areas of Engagement
The ChariTree Foundation engages across interconnected environmental themes:
Climate Adaptation and Resilience
Focusing on how communities adapt to climate change, particularly through practical, locally relevant solutions that strengthen resilience.
Oceans and Coastal Environments
Recognizing the importance of oceans and coastal ecosystems, including community-led efforts such as ocean awareness and beach cleanups, and their role in climate adaptation and biodiversity protection.
Biodiversity and Ecosystems
Highlighting the interdependence of forests, coastal systems, and marine environments, and their importance for sustaining life and supporting resilient communities.
A Focus on Children and Youth
Children and youth are often among the most affected by climate change, yet their perspectives are not always fully reflected in policy discussions.
The ChariTree Foundation brings attention to:
- How adaptation strategies address the needs of children and youth
- Opportunities for youth engagement in environmental action
- The importance of education and awareness in building long-term resilience
Observation, Writing and Insight
A key strength of the foundation’s work at international meetings is careful observation and reflective writing.
Through the work of its founder, children’s author and climate journalist Andrea Koehle Jones, The ChariTree Foundation:
- Observes discussions, negotiations, and emerging priorities
- Identifies patterns, gaps, and areas of progress
- Translates complex processes into clear, accessible insights
- Documents perspectives that may otherwise be overlooked
This writing helps bridge the gap between global policy discussions and public understanding, while also informing community-based action.
Connecting Global Processes to Community Action
International meetings are only meaningful if they lead to tangible change.
The ChariTree Foundation’s observer role is grounded in connecting:
- Global policy discussions
- Local community initiatives
- Practical environmental stewardship
This includes supporting and encouraging initiatives such as environmental education, tree planting, and coastal and ocean cleanups, as part of a broader approach to climate resilience and ecosystem care.
Looking Ahead
The ChariTree Foundation continues to engage in UN climate, ocean, and biodiversity processes with a commitment to:
- Strengthening the visibility of children and youth in environmental decision-making
- Supporting practical, community-based solutions
- Contributing thoughtful insights through observation and writing
- Building connections across sectors and regions