Greenpeace is a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future.
Today, as we celebrate over 50 years of action, Greenpeace USA is committed to rebuilding the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first.
Our Work
Our fight to save the planet and its people has grown more serious— devastating impacts of climate change; an extractivist, racist, and inequitable economy; destruction of ancient forests; and the deterioration of our oceans continue to loom large. In many ways, we’re in the fight of our lives. The inequitable system laid bare by Covid-19 is the same one that landed us in a climate and extinction crisis. Going back to normal is not an option. Greepeacers across the country and globe are fighting for our climate and our communities. Learn more about our active campaigns and issue areas.
50 Years of Greenpeace
In 1971, a handful of determined activists leased a small fishing vessel, called the Phyllis Cormack, and set sail from Vancouver for Amchitka Island in Alaska. Their mission was to protest U.S. nuclear testing off the coast of Alaska with a brave act of defiance: to place themselves in harm’s way. Despite being intercepted by the U.S. Coast Guard, these daring activists sailed into history by bringing worldwide attention to the dangers of nuclear testing. These brave activists and those who supported them started the movement that became the global network that Greenpeace is today.
Over the past 50 years, Greenpeace has indeed changed the world. Our committed activists and supporters have come together to ban commercial whaling, convince the world’s leaders to stop nuclear testing, protect Antarctica, and so much more.
We have grown from a small group of dedicated activists to an international organization with offices in more than 50 countries. But our spirit and resolve remain the same:
- We bear witness to environmental destruction in a peaceful, non-violent manner.
- We use non-violent confrontation to raise the level and quality of public debate.
- In exposing threats to the environment and finding solutions, we have no permanent allies or adversaries.
- We ensure our financial independence from political or commercial interests.
Our Commitment to Environmental Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Greenpeace challenges the systems of power and privilege that destroy the environment and place disproportionate burdens on the most marginalized communities. We know that building a greener and more peaceful world for all requires a diverse, multicultural, people-powered force that centers the most impacted and marginalized to ensure no one gets left behind. Environmental Justice requires that we incorporate racial and socioeconomic justice into the way we fight for the protection of our planet and challenges us to center the voices of those most impacted by environmental harm in the fight for the protection of our planet.
We welcome, value, and rely on a diversity of people, cultural experiences, and perspectives. We learn from one another. Through our campaigning, we create solutions that promote environmental sustainability rooted in social justice.
- Greenpeace USA Indigenous Peoples Policy
- Greenpeace Endorses the Vision for Black Lives Platform
Our Volunteers
We work with thousands of volunteers across the country who power our campaigns and make wins possible. Greenpeace volunteers take action in their own communities, organize locally, and host events across the country. Whether you’ve been an activist for decades or you’re just starting and want to learn how you can help, we have volunteer opportunities for you. Our volunteer platform outlines the opportunities, time commitment, and steps you can take today to get involved — from joining our text team to starting a Greenpeace Action Pod. Start your volunteer journey with Greenpeace today!
Our Funding
Greenpeace does not solicit contributions from government or corporations, nor will we endorse political candidates. Over 3 million Greenpeacers like you provide virtually all of our funding through individual contributions. Your support provides the backbone of our organization and is invaluable to our efforts.
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