“We ‘bear witness’ to environmental destruction in a peaceful, non-violent manner. We use non-violent confrontation to raise the level and quality of public debate. In exposing threats to the environment and finding solutions we have no permanent allies or adversaries. We ensure our financial independence from political or commercial interests.”
Annie Leonard, Greenpeace USA Executive Director
Our History
A group of thoughtful, committed citizens came together in 1971 to create Greenpeace. A handful of determined activists leased a small fishing vessel, called the Phyllis Cormack, and set sail from Vancouver for Amchitka Island in Alaska. Their mission was to protest U.S. nuclear testing off the coast of Alaska with a brave act of defiance: to place themselves in harm’s way.
Despite being intercepted by the U.S. Coast Guard, these daring activists sailed into history by bringing worldwide attention to the dangers of nuclear testing.
Learn more about how it all began here.
Our Values
- We ‘bear witness’ to environmental destruction in a peaceful, non-violent manner;
- We use non-violent confrontation to raise the level and quality of public debate;
- In exposing threats to the environment and finding solutions we have no permanent allies or adversaries;
- We ensure our financial independence from political or commercial interests;
- We seek solutions for, and promote open, informed debate about society’s environmental choices.
Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Greenpeace challenges the systems of power and privilege that destroy the environment and place disproportionate burdens on vulnerable communities. As Greenpeace, we know from nature that diversity is essential to life on the planet and success in our organization.
We welcome, value, and rely on a diversity of people, cultural experiences, and perspectives. We learn from one another. Through our campaigning, we create solutions that promote environmental sustainability rooted in social justice.
Our Volunteers
We work with thousands of volunteers who are on the inside track of our campaigns. Whether you’ve been an activist for decades or you’re just starting and want to learn how you can help, we have volunteer opportunities for you.
Our Funding
Greenpeace does not solicit contributions from government or corporations, nor will we endorse political candidates.
Greenpeace Australia Pacific is an independent environmental campaigning organisation that uses non-violent direct action to work for solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future.
We also receive some grant money from Greenpeace International, based in Amsterdam, and from private foundations and philanthropic organisations for specific projects. To find out more, visit our FAQs page.
