Practical Action

Who we are

Practical Action is an international development organisation that puts ingenious ideas to work so people in poverty can change their world.

We help people find solutions to some of the world’s toughest problems. Challenges made worse by catastrophic climate change and persistent gender inequality. We work with communities to develop ingenious, lasting and locally owned solutions for agriculture, water and waste management, climate resilience and clean energy. And we share what works with others, so answers that start small can grow big.

We’re a global change-making group of problem solvers, knowledge mobilisers and expert advisors. We work together to multiply our impact and help shape a world that works better for everyone. The group consists of a UK registered charity with community projects in Africa, Asia and Latin America, an independent development publishing company and a technical consulting service.

Our culture and values

We believe where there’s action, there’s hope. That societies and economies can work for the benefit of all. That we can live within the planet’s means. That innovation and cooperation can conquer any challenge.

Working together with communities and our global partners, we’re developing innovate real-world solutions to build sustainable lives and livelihoods for people living on the frontlines of poverty and climate change. We’re turning surviving into thriving and overcoming injustice, especially for women and vulnerable groups. 

Together we’re regenerating depleted land into productive farms; repurposing waste into energy; turning surviving into thriving. We’re accelerating what works, so solutions that start small can bring about big change.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Practical Action are committed to promoting equality of opportunity and avoiding discrimination on the grounds of political or religious views or any personal characteristic such as gender, race, religion, ethnicity, class, caste, tribe, sexual orientation.

We are committed to creating a work environment free of harassment and bullying, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.