Friday, April 22 ^nd is the 46 ^th Earth Day event which started in 1970. This environmental-focused movement has grown considerably over the years from gatherings at colleges, universities and schools in the U.S. to a global activity that, according to Earth Day Network, involves “…over one billion people in 192 countries… making it the largest civic observance in the world.” In part, what makes this Earth Day special is that the Paris Agreement will be signed that day, which seeks to lower greenhouse gas emissions and is intended to be an important step in addressing global warming. Over 100 countries are expected to sign this agreement.

According to Giving USA of the $358.38 billion Americans who contributed to charity in 2014, organizations addressing environmental/animal issues comprised $10.5 billion, which represented a 5.3 percent increase over the previous year when adjusted for inflation. In turn, the number of environmental organizations has grown over time as well. According to data accessible at the Center for Nonprofits and Philanthropy at the Urban Institute there are over 35,000 environmental organizations in the U.S. in 2016 which represents a 59% growth over the total number of such groups that existed in 1996.

As our attention and sympathy is drawn to environmental issues this Earth Day, we encourage donors to also verify the trustworthiness of environmental/animal groups by identifying which organizations meet the 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability . For your easy reference, here is a list of such organizations.



On a related note, as part of our Building Trust Video Series we are pleased to provide a video featuring Keith Laughlin, President of Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (a BBB Accredited Charity) which is celebrating its 30 ^th anniversary this year. This organization partners with communities to transform unused railroad corridors into multi-use trails that protect landscapes, revitalize local economies and give Americans the opportunity to lead healthy, active lives.



Finally, remember to let us know by going to https://give.org/ask-us-about-a-charity1/ if you are interested in seeing a report on a charity not on the list and we will do our best to produce one.

H. Art Taylor, President & CEO
BBB Wise Giving Alliance