Sign in to view
member only content

Promoting and fundraising for good causes online can be an effective way to raise awareness and money quickly, but worthy projects can easily get lost on big crowdfunding websites. And while one time donations are welcome, getting support over time can be difficult. That’s why Cool Effect, a crowdfunding website focused on climate change, is helping individuals work together to support projects that tackle global environmental issues.

While the prospect of global warming makes many feel helpless, Cool Effect allows donators to make a tangible difference by supporting a diverse range of projects, many of which are in developing countries that can benefit from carbon credits as a result of the reduced emissions. Supporters can make a one-time contribution, and unlike many crowdfunding sites, can subscribe and make donations over time.

Cool Effect specializes in carbon reduction projects, curating the best ones to help reduce climate pollution. They work with a group of climate scientists to choose the best projects to feature on its platform, and ensure transparency by making sure each one is providing real carbon reductions.

Developments they have supported include fuel-efficient cooking stoves in the Andes, installing bio-digesters in Vietnam, and saving rainforests in tropical Peru. Speaking at the Paris climate change conference last December, director Skye Lawrence said: “We wanted to give every individual the chance to be part of the solution.”

We have already seen how new solar micro-grid technology is being deployed in Kenya to provide clean energy to rural communities. How else can projects like these make use of green technologies and benefit communities in developing countries?