Environment Support

Friends of the Earth Indeed

Friends of the Earth is an environmental organization under Friends of the Earth International, the most extensive environmental network of organizations in the word with more than 70 national organizations worldwide and almost 1 million supporters across the five continents. Friends of the Earth aims to save the world through their continuing efforts of defending the environment. Campaigns launched by Friends of the Earth involve issues like standing against climate change, laws about recycling, eradicating genetically engineered food, convincing companies to be environment-conscious, and transforming homes to be more energy-efficient. The organization also provides programs concerning health and the community, economics, international, legislative and regional affairs.

In March 2005, Friends of the Earth ventured with Bluewater Network, which is also an organization campaigning to fight global warming, water and air pollution and damage to communal lands by vehicles like jet skis and snowmobiles. This alliance has further enabled Friends of the Earth to broaden its scope in addressing pertinent issues.

History

Friends of the Earth was established in San Francisco, California in 1969 by David Brower after deciding to separate from Sierra Club. It soon became an international network in 1971. Over the years, the organization has been unfailingly committed to promote environmental efforts in making the world a better and just place to live in. In 1970, Friends of the Earth launched a campaign called the "fashion revolution" to discourage the use of wild furs and feathers. In the same year, it also launched a campaign to save rivers which stopped over 150 dams and destructive water schemes. In 1979, a campaign against MX Missile was initiated. The Ozone Protection Campaign was then launched in 1987, which led to the phasing out of products that harm the ozone layer, such as materials containing chlorofluorocarbon. In 1991, the Green Tax Project was launched to impose taxes onto polluters. In 1995, Friends of the Earth helped organize the Clean Steel Coalition that worked for the production of cleaner steel. In 2002, the organization helped block a multi-million dollar energy bill which could have subsidized the coal, oil, gas, and nuclear industries. In 2005, a number of issues were also addressed including a funding for renewable energy in developing countries, cancer prevention, protection of America's rail system, banning of cruise ship pollution, and improved vehicle fuel efficiency.

Principles

Friends of the Earth continually revolves around three major philosophies. Firstly, they believe that there is a future wherein people use the world's resources like there is tomorrow. It basically means that people must live within the constraints of the natural world. Secondly, they believe that everyone must get a fair share. Regardless of age, gender, belief, race, and religion, each person deserves to have a good and peaceful life. Lastly, the organization strongly believes in the potential of changing rules. Sometimes, rules must be changed in order to enable the company to work for people and the environment.

Current Activities

Friends of the Earth is currently campaigning for the following issues:

Friends of the Earth Environment Resources