For the first time, the Wyss Academy for Nature and Fondation Botnar convened a co-creation workshop, bringing together like-minded partners to explore how organizations can take responsibility for their own emissions through collective action. 

The initiative built on a joint reflection led by Fondation Botnar, which, despite not having climate as a core philanthropic strategy, recognized the importance of tracking emissions and taking responsibility beyond its main activities. Together with the Wyss Academy for Nature, the Fund idea started being developed as an open and inclusive approach, enabling foundations and other organizations of different sizes to contribute meaningfully to environmental transformation, particularly where individual solutions or partnerships are difficult to establish. 

The workshop explored a contribution-based alternative to traditional carbon offsetting, combining internal emission reduction with investments in measurable, science-based initiatives aligned with the Paris Agreement. Discussions highlighted the value of pooling resources to achieve systemic impact, alongside the need for transparent governance and pragmatic, flexible solutions suited to both small and large contributors. 

The exchange revealed strong interest in joining forces—particularly among Swiss foundations committed to systemic, science-based impact across climate, biodiversity, and human well-being. New participants enriched the co-design process and helped generate the momentum needed to further develop the Transformation Fund. 

Building on this momentum, a follow-up workshop will take place on 30 October 2025.