Members and activists
Years of advocacy
Court cases won
What We Do
Friends of the Earth has fought to protect our environment for 50+ years.
We’re here to fight for a healthier, more just world. Since we were founded in 1969, we’ve built a base of more than 7 million members and activists across the United States.
We are also part of the Friends of the Earth International Federation – a global network in 74 countries all working toward social and environmental justice.
Why We Fight
Climate change is already having real, harmful impacts, and we can’t afford to wait. It’s time to take bold action to protect both people and the planet.
At Friends of the Earth, we know half measures won’t cut it. That’s why we fight for the solutions we need, not just the ones that are politically convenient.
Friends of the Earth works to
Be a bold and fearless voice
This is not the time for half measures or just doing what is politically easy.
The climate and biodiversity crises we’re facing need a loud, clear voice standing up for what’s right. That’s why we dig into the tough policy work and run bold advocacy campaigns — to push for the real changes needed to protect our planet and the people who call it home.
Win campaigns that build towards large-scale change
The problems we face are too big for tiny fixes around the edges.
For too long, our oceans, forests, wildlife — and even people — have taken a back seat. That’s why we’re pushing for bold, transformative changes that put people and the planet ahead of corporate profits.
Our campaigns are built to protect the environment and hold the companies harming it accountable.
Build long term political power
We are always stronger together.
We need to grow our community and build real power to drive change. We know that protecting our planet is deeply connected to the global fight for justice, which is why we work alongside broader movements to make a lasting impact together.
Use our donations wisely
We take managing our finances seriously and believe in doing things the right way.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we truly appreciate every donation — whether it’s from one person or a major foundation.
Your support helps us work toward a better future. And we’re proud that top independent watchdog groups consistently recognize our transparency and how we run things.
Frequently Asked Questions
Friends of the Earth’s mission is to fight for a more healthy and just world. We do this by tackling the root causes of climate change, environmental degradation, and social injustice. We push for systemic policy change rather than half-measures.
Friends of the Earth was founded in 1969 by environmentalist David Brower in San Francisco to create a more activist, politically strong environmental organization capable of taking on emerging global environmental threats.
Friends of the Earth works on a wide range of environmental campaigns including climate and energy justice, protection of forests and oceans, sustainable food and agriculture, economic systems reform, and environmental and social justice.
Unlike some groups that focus on incremental change, Friends of the Earth emphasizes bold, large-scale policy reforms and grassroots activism. We combine research, advocacy, and public pressure to address systemic causes of environmental degradation.
Yes — Friends of the Earth U.S. is affiliated with Friends of the Earth International, a global federation of environmental organizations operating in more than 70 countries working toward environmental sustainability and justice.
You can get involved by joining as a member or activist, signing up for email updates, or donating to support our work. You can fill out the email sign-up in the footer, or donate here.
Friends of the Earth uses donations to support long-term advocacy, run environmental campaigns, build grassroots power, conduct research and policy work, fight legal battles in courts, and strengthen our capacity to fight for meaningful environmental justice reforms. You can learn how we use our donations wisely here.
Use our Contact Us page