Greenpeace

Greenpeace is an international non-governmental environmental organization that pursues its goals through non-violent direct action, investigative reporting, lobbying, and public education. It works to expose environmental abuses and promote sustainable solutions on issues such as climate change, deforestation, ocean pollution, and toxic chemicals.

Greenpeace began in 1971 in Vancouver, Canada, as the Don't Make a Wave Committee. Members organized a voyage by the ship Greenpeace to protest U.S. nuclear testing off Alaska, and the ship's name became the movement's identity. The organization later expanded into an international network, with Greenpeace International coordinating campaigns across national groups.

Greenpeace operates as a decentralized network of national and regional offices. It funds its activities primarily through individual donations and foundations, and generally does not accept funding from governments or corporations to maintain independence; some affiliates may have exceptions.

Campaigns and tactics include non-violent direct action, ship-based protests, and investigative reporting. Core areas of work encompass protection of forests, oceans, and biodiversity, promotion of renewable energy, reduction of toxic chemicals, and reduction of fossil fuels. The organization seeks policy changes through lobbying, transparency, and public pressure, as well as consumer-facing campaigns and legal action when appropriate.

Impact and reception: Greenpeace has contributed to raising public awareness and influencing policy, industry practices, and corporate reform in various countries. Its tactics have earned both support and criticism; supporters credit the group with driving attention to urgent environmental issues, while critics describe some actions as disruptive or confrontational and subject to legal challenges.