Best sustainability nonprofit organizations | Rare

As climate change and biodiversity loss shape communities worldwide, sustainability nonprofit organizations play a critical role in advancing long-term environmental and social solutions. Their work spans conservation, sustainable food systems, climate adaptation, and environmental policy. 

While approaches differ, many share a goal of protecting natural systems while supporting community well-being. This article highlights leading sustainability nonprofits and explains how supporters can engage with their work.

Key takeaways

• Sustainability nonprofit organizations often address climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and sustainable resource management.
• Different nonprofits focus on different strategies, including policy advocacy, scientific research, ecosystem restoration, and community partnerships.
• Effective organizations combine clear missions, measurable impact, and transparent reporting.
• Supporting sustainability nonprofits can help protect natural systems while strengthening long-term environmental and economic stability.

How many sustainability nonprofits help change the world

Sustainability nonprofits exist because communities need trusted institutions to protect shared resources. Today, 57% of Americans report high trust in nonprofit organizations. Largely because many serve an impactful role in providing education, public services, and/or environmental stewardship. That trust allows nonprofits to step into complex environmental challenges and work across science, policy, and community action.

Their impact also carries economic weight. The World Economic Forum estimates that more than half of global GDP is moderately or highly dependent on nature. Sustainability nonprofits tend to safeguard forests, oceans, soil, and water systems that people rely on, while advancing research, shaping policy, and supporting on-the-ground conservation efforts that turn environmental nonprofit goals into practical results.

Great sustainability nonprofits to support this year

These nonprofits were chosen for their demonstrated work in climate action, conservation, sustainable resource management, and environmental policy. Below are organizations addressing some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges.

1. Rare

Mission: 

Rare works to help communities protect natural resources while strengthening local livelihoods. Through behavioral science and locally driven leadership, the organization supports practical solutions that address climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource management.

Rare partners with farmers, fishers, Indigenous Peoples, and local leaders to create solutions that reflect regional realities. Nature conservation efforts range from supporting regenerative agriculture to improving small-scale fisheries management and expanding nature-based financing.

Impact:

• Enable 2,000+ communities across 9 countries to lead measurable, community-first conservation in high-priority ecosystems.
• Boost sustainable fisheries yields by up to 50% through behavior-centered management that improves food security and income.
• Restore 100,000+ hectares of forests and coastal habitats to strengthen biodiversity and climate resilience.
• Enable community-led conservation and co-management across 300,000+ km² of coastal ocean.
• Support the conservation of 50,000+ km² of land in collaboration with local and global partners.

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2. Climate Central

Mission:
Climate Central is a nonprofit organization made up of scientists and communicators that researches climate change and shares accurate, evidence-based information with the public and decision-makers. It makes data on issues like sea level rise, extreme weather, and temperature trends accessible. The organization focuses on communication and education rather than advocacy, working with journalists, educators, and media partners to spread climate insights.

Impact:

• Conduct scientific research and publish findings on climate change and related impacts.
• Translate complex climate data into accessible tools, visuals, and local analyses.
• Support journalists and media to improve public understanding of climate science.
• Provide resources that inform community planning and public discussion on climate change.

3. Climate Neutral (The Change Climate Project)

Mission:
Climate Neutral is a nonprofit that aims to accelerate corporate action on climate change by helping companies measure, reduce, and disclose their greenhouse gas emissions. Through a certification process known as The Climate Label, it provides a standardized framework for businesses to account for emissions, set reduction targets, and fund climate solutions. The organization’s work centers on making climate action more accessible for companies and clearer for consumers.

Impact:

• Certify companies that measure and address their carbon emissions according to a public standard.
• Encourage transparent reporting of emissions and reduction efforts.
• Provide tools and guidance to help businesses integrate climate action into operations.
• Support a community of brands committed to long-term carbon accountability.

4. Conservation International (CI)

Mission:
Conservation International works to conserve Earth’s natural systems such as forests, oceans, and other ecosystems so they continue to sustain people and the planet. It combines science, fieldwork, partnerships, and policy engagement to protect biodiversity, promote sustainable resource management, and help societies integrate nature into economic and planning decisions. The organization operates globally with projects and collaborations in nearly 30 countries.

Impact:

• Protect and restore natural areas to support biodiversity and climate resilience.
• Work with governments, communities, and businesses to advance conservation planning.
• Promote sustainable fisheries, forest protection, and coastal ecosystem stewardship.
• Use scientific research and policy engagement to strengthen environmental decision-making.

5. Earthjustice

Mission:
Earthjustice is a nonprofit environmental law organization that uses the U.S. legal system to defend the right to a healthy environment for people and nature. It represents public-interest clients in court free of charge, working to enforce environmental laws, challenge polluting practices, and advance protections for clean air, clean water, wildlife, and climate.

Impact:

• Litigate to uphold and enforce key environmental laws and regulations.
• Challenge fossil fuel expansion, industrial pollution, and harmful infrastructure.
• Support legal rights for clean air, water, and wildlife habitat.
• Collaborate with communities, advocacy groups, and experts to shape court decisions and policy outcomes.

6. Environmental Defense Fund

Mission:
Environmental Defense Fund works to preserve the natural systems that support life on Earth. The organization focuses on climate change, clean energy, sustainable fisheries, and public health by combining scientific research, economic analysis, and policy advocacy. EDF often works with businesses, governments, and communities to develop practical environmental solutions that reduce pollution and protect ecosystems.

Impact:

• Advance climate and clean energy policies at national and international levels.
• Lead methane reduction and greenhouse gas mitigation initiatives.
• Promote sustainable fisheries management through science-based reforms.
• Collaborate with corporations to improve environmental performance and accountability.

7. Greenpeace

Mission:
Greenpeace is an independent global campaigning organization that acts to protect and conserve the environment and promote peace. It uses nonviolent direct action, public advocacy, and research to challenge environmental harm and push for systemic change. The organization is funded by individual supporters and does not accept government or corporate funding.

Impact:

• Campaign for the transition away from fossil fuels toward renewable energy.
• Advocate for forest protection and biodiversity conservation.
• Conduct investigations into environmental destruction and corporate practices.
• Mobilize grassroots action to influence environmental policy and public awareness.

8. Health in Harmony

Mission:
Health in Harmony is an international nonprofit focused on reversing deforestation of tropical rainforests by supporting solutions that benefit both human and environmental health. It works closely with rainforest communities to design and implement locally led conservation and livelihood programs aimed at protecting ecosystems and improving well-being. The organization’s approach recognizes the connection between healthy forests and a stable climate, and centers community expertise in decision-making.

Impact:

• Support rainforest conservation by collaborating directly with local communities.
• Promote strategies that link human health, economic opportunity, and forest protection.
• Preserve and restore tropical ecosystems to help counter global heating.
• Use community-driven methods to align sustainable livelihoods with ecosystem stewardship.

9. Jane Goodall Institute

Mission:
The Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) is a global nonprofit that advances Dr. Jane Goodall’s legacy by promoting wildlife research, environmental conservation, and community-led stewardship. It works to protect great apes and their habitats while encouraging individuals of all ages to take compassionate action for people, animals, and the environment. Programs also support youth leadership, sustainable livelihoods, and education through initiatives like the Roots & Shoots network.

Impact:

• Protect habitat and support the welfare of chimpanzees and other great apes.
• Foster youth engagement in conservation and community action through Roots & Shoots.
• Partner with local communities to integrate sustainable resource management and environmental health.
• Support research, education, and holistic conservation strategies that link people and nature.

10. Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)

Mission:
The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is a nonprofit environmental advocacy organization that works to protect the planet’s natural systems, wildlife, and public health. It combines science, law, and policy expertise with the support of members and activists to address climate change, pollution, and threats to clean air and water. Since its founding in 1970, NRDC has used legal action and policy engagement to defend environmental protections and advance sustainable solutions.

Impact:

• Use legal action and policy advocacy to uphold and strengthen environmental protections.
• Advocate for climate change mitigation and clean energy transitions.
• Protect wildlife habitat, freshwater resources, and public health through evidence-based legal strategies.
• Engage science and community support to influence environmental decision-making and regulation.

11. Ocean Conservancy

Mission:
Ocean Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the ocean and the communities that depend on it. It uses science, policy, and public engagement to advance solutions to ocean health challenges, including pollution, overfishing, and climate change. For more than 50 years, the organization has worked with partners and citizens to drive evidence-based strategies that support biodiversity, sustainable management, and resilient marine ecosystems.

Impact:

• Support global efforts to reduce plastic pollution and mobilize cleanup initiatives
• Advocate for sustainable fisheries management and marine policy reform
• Bring science to policymakers to guide ocean protection strategies
• Educate and engage the public and communities on ocean stewardship and conservation challenges

12. Rainforest Alliance

Mission:
Rainforest Alliance is an international nonprofit focused on conserving biodiversity and ensuring sustainable livelihoods by transforming land-use practices, business operations, and consumer behavior. The organization works with farmers, forest communities, companies, and governments to promote sustainable agriculture, forestry, and ecosystem management. Its approach aims to balance environmental health, social equity, and economic opportunity in landscapes around the world.

Impact:

• Advance sustainable agriculture practices that protect soil, water, and wildlife habitat
• Support forest conservation through certification and community engagement
• Promote supply chain transparency and responsible sourcing with businesses
• Empower local communities with training and resources for sustainable land stewardship

13. The Nature Conservancy (TNC)

Mission:
The Nature Conservancy is a global nonprofit organization that works to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Using science-based strategies, partnerships, and practical conservation action, it seeks to protect biodiversity, safeguard freshwater resources, and enhance climate resilience. They collaborate with communities, Indigenous groups, governments, and private landowners to implement solutions at the landscape and seascape scale.

Impact:

• Conserve forests, grasslands, rivers, and coastal ecosystems to support biodiversity
• Advance climate resilience through natural climate solutions and land protection
• Partner with local communities and Indigenous groups for shared conservation outcomes
• Integrate science and policy to inform sustainable land and water management practices

14. Union of Concerned Scientists

Mission:
The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is a nonprofit organization that puts rigorous, independent science into action to address global environmental and societal challenges. It develops evidence-based solutions and advocates for policies that support a healthy environment, sustainable energy, and equitable outcomes. UCS combines scientific research with public engagement and policy outreach to influence decisions at local, national, and global levels.

Impact:

• Conduct independent scientific analyses on climate, energy, food systems, and environmental risk
• Advocate for policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote clean energy
• Mobilize a network of scientists and supporters to defend scientific integrity in decision-making
• Translate scientific evidence into actionable recommendations for policymakers and the public

15. WeForest

Mission:
WeForest is an international nonprofit dedicated to restoring degraded forest landscapes to mitigate climate change and enhance biodiversity. It works with local partners, communities, and stakeholders to implement science-based reforestation and ecosystem regeneration projects in regions with high conservation needs. WeForest’s approach seeks to deliver environmental benefits while supporting sustainable livelihoods.

Impact:

• Restore threatened forest landscapes through long-term reforestation and regeneration efforts
• Support biodiversity by improving habitat quality and ecosystem function
• Integrate community involvement into restoration planning and implementation
• Use measurable, science-based methods to track forest regrowth and climate impact

How to get involved with sustainability nonprofit organizations

Supporting a sustainability nonprofit can take many forms, from volunteering to making a financial contribution. If you’re choosing an organization to support, look for a clear mission and evidence of measurable impact. Many established nonprofits publish annual reports, outline their strategies, and share how funds are used to advance conservation, climate action, or sustainable development goals.

It can also help to consider each organization’s programmatic approach. Some focus on policy advocacy, others on research, ecosystem restoration, or community partnerships. Reviewing their programs, geographic focus, and track record can help you decide where your support will make the most meaningful difference.

Rare is a great example of a human-centered charity that offers a people-centered approach to conservation that connects environmental protection with local livelihoods. By applying behavioral science and partnering with local communities, Rare supports sustainable fishing, regenerative agriculture, and climate resilience efforts in regions facing significant environmental pressures. Supporting Rare means contributing to practical, science-informed solutions designed to deliver measurable environmental and social outcomes.

Join Rare today to help advance community-driven conservation worldwide.

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