Friends of the Earth

Largest international network of environmental pressure groups, established in the UK in 1971, which aims to protect the environment and to promote rational and sustainable use of the Earth's resources. It campaigns on such issues as acid rain; air, sea, river, and land pollution; recycling; disposal of toxic wastes; nuclear power and renewable energy; the destruction of rainforests; pesticides; and agriculture. FoE has member groups in 68 countries.

FoE is one of the leading environmental pressure groups in the UK. It has a unique network of campaigning local groups, working in 200 communities in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Over 90% of its income comes from individual donations, the rest from special fundraising events, grants, and trading. Friends of the Earth Trust is a charity which commissions detailed research. It provides extensive information and educational materials. Over the years FoE has achieved bans on ozone-destroying chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), reduced trade in rainforest timber, and increased support for cleaner energy technologies. FoE was the first environmental pressure group in the UK to start campaigns for whales, endangered species, and tropical rainforests, and against acid rain, ozone depletion, and climate change.