An Uncommon Approach to Environmental Issues
We start with rigorous science. Then we work directly with businesses, government and communities.
Together, we create lasting solutions to the most serious environmental problems.
Our Approach
Sound Science
Scientists founded Environmental Defense over 40 years ago. Ever since, we've relied on science to define our policy goals.
Economic Incentives
Market competition has always been the driving force of American innovation. EDF was the first nonprofit to harness the power of markets for environmental progress while reining in their potential to do harm.
Corporate Partnerships
Changing America requires engaging America's corporations. Environmental Defense Fund emphasizes the science while forging unique alliances to produce tangible environmental results.
Getting the Law Right
Back in the 1960s when EDF was just starting out, our first major campaign — banning the pesticide DDT to save birds of prey — used the courts in a way no one else had before.
What We Work On
Global Warming
"Our top priority is to pass national legislation that caps global warming pollution and creates a flexible emissions trading market. That will open the door to a green technology revolution." — Steve Cochran, director of our national climate campaign
Land, Water & Wildlife
"Most endangered species depend on private lands for survival. But many landowners do not welcome endangered species on their property. With the number of extinctions rising, we knew we had to do something about that." — Michael Bean, wildlife program director
Oceans
"Protecting critical areas, giving fishermen a financial stake in the future health of fisheries and building new markets for sustainable seafood will bring the resilient oceans back to abundant life." — Dr. Rod Fujita, marine ecologist
Health
"Everyone has a right to breathe healthy air, but more than half of all Americans live in areas that don't meet clean-air standards. We're working to change that, so that kids and adults can breathe easier."
— Vickie Patton, attorney