Greenpeace

Description

Greenpeace is a global campaigning network working on environmental protection and peace issues.

It was founded in Canada in 1971 by a group of activists who sailed to Amchitka, Alaska, to protest against a US nuclear weapons test. The network now comprises independent national and regional organisations in over 55 countries across Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, Australia and the Pacific. Greenpeace International, its coordinating body, is based in Amsterdam.

Greenpeace campaigns on issues such as climate change, deforestation, overfishing, commercial whaling, genetic engineering, and anti-nuclear and anti-war causes. It uses nonviolent direct action, advocacy and research to raise public awareness and press governments and corporations to change their practices. It holds general consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council and is a founding member of the INGO Accountability Charter.

The organisation does not accept funding from governments, corporations or political parties, relying instead on individual supporters and foundation grants. Its work includes ship-based expeditions, community organising, and campaigns run by local offices working with volunteers around the world.