Greenpeace International is a global non-governmental organization that works to protect the environment across the world It works to understand, protect and conserve the Earth’s ecosystems, habitats, biodiversity and species. Founded in 1971, the organization's mission is to “to ensure the ability of the Earth to nurture life in all its diversity.”
Greenpeace International works towards its objectives by using public education, research and direct action. The organization campaigns on a wide range of environmental issues and works with governments, businesses and other organizations to find solutions to environmental issues.
Greenpeace International has taken some of the most powerful and creative actions to protect the environment. Here are 5 of the most interesting and powerful examples:
1. Protecting the Arctic: In 2011, Greenpeace sent a ship to the Arctic to help draw attention to the dangers of climate change to the region. The organization documented and shared the impacts of climate change on local communities, like the Inuit. The campaign resulted in major oil companies abandoning plans to drill for oil in the Arctic.
2. Stopping Whaling: In 1986, Greenpeace took direct action against whalers in Antarctica, launching a voyage from Australia to protect whales from hunters. The campaign resulted in a ban on commercial whaling and a reduction in illegal whale hunting.
3. Boycotting Palm Oil: In 2004, Greenpeace launched the “Say No to Palm Oil” campaign to stop the destruction of rainforests in Southeast Asia to make way for palm plantations. The campaign highlighted the destruction of habitat and the resulting impact on endangered species like the orangutan. The campaign led to major companies committing to only source sustainable palm oil.
4. Protecting Forests: In 2011, Greenpeace launched the “Endangered Forests” campaign to protect threatened forests from destruction in countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Indonesia. The organization has worked with governments and companies to find solutions to the destruction of these forests and curb the destruction of ancient forests.
5. Bottling Water: In 2016, Greenpeace launched the “End Bottled Water” campaign to draw attention to the environmental impact of bottled water. The campaign highlighted the pollution caused by plastic bottles and encouraged people to drink local tap water. Additionally, Greenpeace worked with companies to reduce their plastic pollution and increase their use of sustainable packaging.
Overall, Greenpeace International has taken many bold and creative actions to protect the environment across the world. These five examples show how the organization is able to use direct action, public education and research to find solutions to environmental issues.