
Amanda Leland
Executive Director
Description
Amanda Leland, Executive Director of Environmental Defense Fund, is responsible for leading EDF’s global mission of ensuring a vital Earth for everyone by driving game-changing climate solutions with a focus on people and nature, energy transition and healthy communities. Amanda oversees the delivery of significant results through multi-disciplinary global initiatives, while also deepening a culture of collaboration and an equitable, people-centered approach. Ms. Leland previously led EDF’s Oceans program, a global team in 14 countries focused on reversing overfishing while improving human wellbeing. A marquis achievement is the dramatic economic and ecological recovery of U.S. fisheries. She holds a master’s degree in marine biology from University of Maine.
Background
Before joining EDF in 2004, she was a scientist conducting cooperative research with commercial fishers in Maine, a marine mammal zookeeper and a congressional aide focused on ocean issues.
Education
Master of Science (M.S.), Marine Biology, University of Maine
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Ecology, Evolution and Population Biology, Purdue University
Latest pieces
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How dairy companies and farmers can help save the planet
EDF, October 17, 2023 -
Oil and gas producers: This is their big moment for climate action
EDF, September 29, 2023 -
Can hydrogen live up to its clean energy promise? Here are 3 key challenges
EDF Voices, December 13, 2022 -
Climate change and a looming cooking oil crisis: Here’s what we can do
EDF Voices, May 5, 2022 -
Food shortages from war in Ukraine preview a future without climate action
EDF Voices, April 19, 2022 -
UN climate conference more productive than you think
EDF Voices, November 19, 2021 -
Go bold on climate: The unequivocal, inarguable moment for climate is now
EDF Voices, September 13, 2021 -
Letter to the Department of Commerce regarding Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper
Source, June 14, 2017
Press materials
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RGGI is the Optimal Path for Pennsylvania to Cut Climate Pollution, Protect Consumers and Win Jobs in the New Clean Economy
November 1, 2023 -
Carper Proposal Would Modernize Path to Clean Energy
May 18, 2023 -
New Partnership to Improve Air Quality, Advance Global Health and Climate Goals in Latin American and Caribbean Countries
September 7, 2022 -
Twin Crises Show Urgent Need to Cut Fossil Fuel Dependence
April 4, 2022 -
Environmental Defense Fund Appoints New International Leaders
February 2, 2022 -
Amanda Leland Named Executive Director of Environmental Defense Fund
October 6, 2021 -
Study: Financing is a Key Barrier to Sustainable Ocean Economy, but Solutions Exist
June 8, 2021 -
Jane Lubchenco Joins Biden All-Star Climate Team
March 22, 2021