Research Guides: Environmental Education: Environmental Organizations

National Environmental Organizations

350
350.org is an organization that aims to create a global grassroots movement that 'can hold our leaders accountable to the realities of science and the principles of justice.'
Center for Biological Diversity
The CBD uses science, law, and media to 'secure a future for all species, great and small, hovering on the brink of extinction.'
Greenpeace
Greenpeace 'uses peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and to promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future.'
League of Conservation Voters
LCV 'advocates for sounds environmental laws and policies, holds elected officials accountable for their votes and actions, and elects pro-environment candidates who will champion our priority issues.'
National Audubon Society
The Audubon Society aims to 'conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth's biological diversity.'
National Resources Defense Council
The NRDC aims to 'establish sustainability and good stewardship of the Earth as central ethical imperatives of human society' and to 'foster the fundamental right of all people to have a voice in decisions that affect their environment.'
National Wildlife Federation
National Wildlife Federation is 'a voice for wildlife, dedicated to protecting wildlife and habitat and inspiring the future generation of conservationists.'
Sierra Club
The Sierra Club was founded by conservationist John Muir, and is the 'nation's largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization -- with more than two million members and supporters.'
The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy is a conservation group 'working around the world to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people.'
The Ocean Conservancy
The Ocean Conservancy works to 'educate and empower people to defend not only the ocean and its wildlife, but also the millions who earn their living from the ocean.'
Union of Concerned Scientists
UCS 'puts rigorous, independent science to work to solve our planet's most pressing problems. Joining with citizens across the country, we combine technical analysis and effective advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for a healthy, safe, and sustainable future.'
World Wildlife Fund
WWF's aim is 'to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth..to build a future in which people live in harmony with nature.'

Regional Environmental Organizations

Chesapeake Bay Foundation

Although a significant portion of environmental advocacy occurs on the local or national level, regional advocacy is also essential.

For example, William & Mary is located in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Below is a list of several relevant organizations:

Find Local Environmental Organizations

Local environmental organizations address a wide variety of issues. They range from land conservancies and naturalist societies to riverkeepers.

Sometimes a simple Google search is the best way to find local environmental groups.