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Support an Asset: Earthjustice

Earthjustice: Advocating for Environmental Justice

Earthjustice, formerly known as the Sierra Club Legal Defense Fund, is an esteemed nonprofit public interest organization headquartered in San Francisco, with a global reach that includes an international program, a communications team, and a policy and legislation team based in Washington, D.C. This organization boasts a remarkable network of 14 regional offices across the United States.

Founded in 1971 as the Sierra Club Legal Defense Fund, Earthjustice has operated as an independent entity, although it maintains close associations with the Sierra Club. The name was transitioned to Earthjustice in 1997 to better align with its mission as a legal advocate representing a diverse array of regional, national, and international organizations. Notably, Earthjustice has provided pro bono legal representation to over 1,000 clients, including the Sierra Club, World Wildlife Fund, American Lung Association, and various state and community groups such as the Maine Lobstermen's Association and the Friends of the Everglades.

Earthjustice operates as a nonprofit organization, offering its legal services to clients without charge. It is fueled by the financial support of donors and does not accept funding from corporations or governments. In 2021, Earthjustice reported total revenue of $154 million, with total expenditures amounting to $100 million. Their dedicated team comprises approximately 170 full-time attorneys stationed across 14 offices in the United States, along with 14 public-interest lobbyists based in Washington, D.C. They are actively engaged in 630 ongoing legal proceedings.

Earthjustice stands as the foremost nonprofit public interest environmental law organization. Their commitment revolves around leveraging the power of the law and the strength of collaboration to safeguard public health, conserve pristine natural landscapes and wildlife, promote clean energy, and combat climate change. They operate under the fundamental belief that the Earth deserves effective legal representation.

Since their inception in 1971, Earthjustice has left an indelible mark on environmental advocacy. They have preserved invaluable wilderness areas, improved air quality, catalyzed the transition to 100% clean energy, and shielded countless endangered species from extinction. Their legal efforts have also resulted in long-overdue and groundbreaking regulations for some of the nation's most polluting industries. Earthjustice's litigation track record is a testament to their impact.

Earthjustice places a premium on sound fiscal management, accountability, and transparency, consistently earning top ratings from the nation's leading charitable watchdog organizations. These include Charity Navigator, which has bestowed upon Earthjustice its highest rating for more than a decade.

When individuals contribute to Earthjustice, they are not only supporting one of the nation's most effective environmental organizations but also enabling other nonprofits to access top-tier legal defense. Earthjustice's dedication to pro bono legal work, representing over 1,000 public-interest clients, is sustained by the generosity of foundations and individual donors.

Earthjustice recognizes climate change as one of the paramount threats to the global environment and human well-being. Moreover, they champion the divestment from fossil fuel and petrochemical companies as a crucial strategy to expedite the transition to a low-carbon, clean energy economy. Earthjustice is firmly committed to divesting from these industries and periodically reviews their progress in this endeavor.

Individuals can contribute to Earthjustice's noble cause by donating to support their ongoing efforts. Your donations are a critical source of support for Earthjustice's mission to protect the environment through legal advocacy.

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