Environmental Defense Fund

Protecting Our Planet: An Inside Look at the Environmental Defense Fund

The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is a leading nonprofit organization tackling some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. Founded in 1967, EDF has achieved significant victories in areas like clean air, clean water, and climate change, impacting the lives of millions.

How it works

EDF tackles environmental problems by:

• Finding Solutions: Their scientists and experts work alongside policymakers and businesses to develop practical and cost-effective solutions to environmental challenges.
• Advocating for Change: They engage in advocacy campaigns to promote these solutions and hold polluters accountable.
• Mobilizing communities: EDF empowers local communities to raise their voices and champion environmental solutions in their own neighborhoods.

Notable Achievements

EDF has achieved remarkable feats in its history, including:

• Reducing air pollution in major U.S. cities by 73% since 1970.
• Protecting over 5 million acres of forests and other natural areas.
• Promoting energy efficiency that averted 2.5 billion tons of greenhouse gas emissions.
• Leading the fight against coral reef destruction and conserving over 15% of the world’s coral reefs.

Areas of Focus

EDF focuses on four key areas:

• Climate change: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fostering renewable energy, and promoting energy efficiency.
• Water: Protecting and restoring water quality and availability.
• Air: Reducing air pollution and promoting clean energy.
• Food and agriculture: Developing sustainable practices to reduce agriculture’s environmental impact.

Funding and Impact

EDF is funded primarily by individual donors, foundations, and corporations. In FY2023, they received over $200 million in contributions. This translates to remarkable impact: for every dollar donated, EDF generates an additional $24 in environmental benefits.

FAQs

1. What is the mission of the Environmental Defense Fund?

EDF’s mission is to preserve and protect the natural world for future generations.

2. How does EDF differ from other environmental organizations?

EDF focuses on finding practical and cost-effective solutions to environmental problems, working in partnership with diverse stakeholders.

3. What are some of EDF’s current campaigns?

EDF is currently working on campaigns to address climate change, protect water resources, reduce air pollution, and promote sustainable food systems.

4. How can I support EDF?

There are various ways to support EDF, including making a donation, volunteering your time, or advocating for their solutions and policies.