PACE (Progress on Action for Climate Equity) Index is a collaboration between SOS-UK and the Zentrum für Data-driven Empowerment, Leadership and Advocacy (zedela) in Germany—two organizations dedicated to data-driven advocacy for historically marginalized communities in Europe. Working alongside leading non-profit organizations in Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, the PACE Index addresses discrimination and systemic inequalities, redistributes power, and amplifies the voices of underrepresented communities in the climate sector.
We aim to build a more representative, equitable and inclusive future for all in the climate sector by:
PACE Index is a collaboration between SOS-UK, the creators of The RACE Report in the UK, and zedela in Germany, pioneers in data-driven advocacy for minoritised communities in Europe. The survey is conducted by the Zentrum für Data-driven Empowerment, Leadership and Advocacy (zedela) gUG, an independent civil society think tank based in Berlin. zedela is a BPoC-led, community-oriented, and justice-driven organisation working at the intersection of critical research on diversity, racism, and discrimination, as well as the development of BIPoC leadership programs. (BPoC stands for Black and People of Color, emphasising the lived experiences of racialized communities.) Quantitative and qualitative data play a central role in zedela’s work, informing evidence-based recommendations for interventions, programs, and institutional change.
Internationally, collecting what is known as equality data has been standard practice for decades in countries such as the UK, the US, and Canada. In the area of gender equality, quantifiable information on the underrepresentation of women and the associated discrimination serves as the basis for developing support measures. This approach can also be applied to other forms of discrimination. The climate crisis disproportionately impacts economically disadvantaged, racialized, and marginalized communities. This pattern of unequal vulnerability is evident in both the Global South and the Global North. However, these affected communities are often excluded from decision-making processes when it comes to developing solutions. Our applied research promotes transparency and accountability by collecting GDPR-compliant data on the diversity and inclusion of climate and conservation NGOs. By translating this data into meaningful change through positive action, we aim to ensure that diversity and inclusion becomes a structural consideration rather than a symbolic commitment. The PACE Index survey is a crucial step towards embedding diversity and inclusion as a strategic and staffing priority within organisations in the climate sector.
The data will provide a clearer picture of who is represented in organisations and who is being left out, and will be used to identify where support and action are most needed. It will help organisations understand their current position and where improvements can be made. This evidence base can inform policies, shape recruitment and retention strategies, and guide leadership decisions.
The data also forms the foundation for wider engagement. We will work with media partners to share the data responsibly and ensure it’s used to promote equity. It will support efforts to make diversity and inclusion a structural priority across the sector.
PACE Index is designed to centre the voices and experiences of economically disadvantaged, racialized, and marginalised communities. SOS-UK and zedela, and the PACE Index advisory board are led by representatives from these communities, with diverse lived experience and expertise shaping the direction of the project.
PACE Index facilitates space for people within organisations who identify in these ways to come together for support and shared learning. We’re also working with young people, students, and activists across Europe to make sure future leaders from these communities are part of the conversation. We will lead with experiences when we present the data findings, to create a genuine connection between the numbers and those impacted.
All board members and senior staff of European organisations operating within the climate sector are invited to participate in this survey. Eligible participants should hold leadership positions, such as executive directors, chief officers, directors, department heads, or equivalent roles. We focus on board members and senior staff because they play a pivotal role in shaping climate strategies, policies, and decision-making processes within their organisations. As key leaders—such as executive directors, chief officers, and department heads—they have the authority and responsibility to drive systemic change and ensure that climate initiatives are both effective and equitable. By engaging those in leadership positions, we aim to understand how decisions are made and how inclusion and justice can be better integrated into climate action.