Environmental Defense Fund

We work to solve the most critical environmental problems facing the 50 years of forging solutions that help people and nature prosper.

Our Mission and Values

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Environmental Defense Fund’s mission is to preserve the natural systems on which all life depends.

Guided by science and economics, we find practical and lasting solutions to the most serious environmental problems.

What distinguishes Environmental Defense Fund is the combination of what we protect and how we protect it.

We work to solve the most critical environmental problems facing the planet. This has drawn us to areas that span the biosphere: climate, oceans, ecosystems and health. Since these topics are intertwined, our solutions take a multidisciplinary approach. We work in concert with other organizations — as well as with business, government and communities — and avoid duplicating work already being done effectively by others.

Our core values

These values allow us to experiment courageously in our work, while staying true to who we’ve been as an organization for 50 years.

  • Results — Create environmental solutions that make a lasting difference in the world
  • Respect — Welcome diverse perspectives, talents and contributions
  • Innovation — Design and use a wide range of problem-solving tools
  • Optimism — Embrace ambitious environmental goals while taking into account real-world dynamics
  • Integrity — Uphold a commitment to science, rigorous analysis, intellectual honesty and ethical action

Diversity, equity and inclusion at EDF

A basic principle of ecology is that diversity in an ecosystem fosters strength and resilience.

At Environmental Defense Fund, we believe that by creating a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion, we will similarly foster greater strength and resilience within and beyond the organization.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion of our staff, board and supporters, and the people, groups and partners with whom we work.

We welcome, value and respect the differences of all and believe that by tapping into a broad array of perspectives, skills and ideas we can be even more effective in securing meaningful and durable solutions to the world’s most urgent environmental challenges.

Opportunities at Environmental Defense Fund

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