Environmental Defense Fund

Environmental Defense Fund. The Environmental Defense Fund is a leading international nonprofit organization dedicated to creating transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. It employs a unique approach that links science, economics, and law to tackle issues like climate change, ocean health, and ecosystem restoration. Founded by a group of scientists on Long Island, it has grown into a global entity with over 3 million members and a staff of experts working worldwide.

History and founding

The organization was founded in 1967 in response to the widespread use of the pesticide DDT and its devastating effects on wildlife, particularly birds of prey like the osprey and bald eagle. The founding scientists—Arthur Cooley, Charles F. Wurster, Dennis Puleston, and Robert E. Smolker—successfully sued to halt DDT spraying in Suffolk County, New York, establishing a precedent for using litigation to achieve environmental protection. This early victory set the stage for its expansion into broader issues, moving from local advocacy to national and international policy work. Under the long-term leadership of president Fred Krupp, who joined in 1984, it pioneered market-based strategies, notably advocating for the Acid Rain Program under the Clean Air Act.

Mission and approach

Its mission is to preserve the natural systems on which all life depends by finding practical and enduring solutions grounded in rigorous science and economic principles. The core methodology involves partnering with unusual allies, including businesses, governments, and communities, to design policies that harness the power of markets for environmental good. This approach is evident in its work on cap-and-trade systems for reducing pollution and promoting sustainable fishing practices. The organization maintains a strong commitment to data-driven analysis, operating its own dedicated team of scientists, economists, and attorneys to inform its advocacy and partnerships.

Key initiatives and campaigns

Major initiatives span climate, oceans, ecosystems, and health. In climate, it has been instrumental in advancing market mechanisms to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, influencing policies from the United States Congress to the European Union. Its MethaneSAT satellite project, developed in partnership with Harvard University and others, aims to pinpoint global methane emissions from the oil and gas sector. In ocean conservation, it works globally to reform fisheries through catch share programs and combat ocean acidification. Other significant campaigns focus on restoring resilient habitats like the Mississippi River Delta and the Amazon rainforest, and reducing exposure to toxic chemicals through partnerships with major retailers like Walmart and McDonald's.

Organizational structure and leadership

Headquartered in New York City, it maintains offices across the United States, including in Washington, D.C., Austin, and San Francisco, and internationally in locations such as London, Beijing, and Mumbai. The organization is led by President Fred Krupp, with executive management overseeing divisions dedicated to science, advocacy, and development. It is governed by a board of trustees that includes prominent figures from science, business, and law, such as Thomas Lovejoy and Wendy Schmidt. Operational funding comes from individual members, foundations like the Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Bezos Earth Fund, and corporate partnerships.

Impact and recognition

The organization's work has contributed to landmark environmental policies and measurable ecological recoveries. Its advocacy was crucial to the passage of the 1990 amendments to the Clean Air Act and the establishment of the first national cap-and-trade program for sulfur dioxide. Its fisheries work has helped rebuild stocks from the Gulf of Mexico to Namibia. It consistently receives high ratings from charity evaluators like Charity Navigator and has been recognized by publications such as Fast Company for its innovative approach. The enduring legacy of its founding battle is seen in the recovery of the bald eagle, which was removed from the U.S. Endangered Species List in 2007.

Category:Environmental organizations based in the United States Category:Organizations established in 1967 Category:Climate change organizations