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Dear Friend,

Over this past month, many of us at Earth Island have been immersed in researching and understanding the risks we face from the ongoing cuts to federal grants supporting climate and environmental programs, as well as from possible revocation of nonprofits’ tax-exempt status. We have been working round-the-clock to understand what, if anything, we can do to mitigate risks and figure out ways to support our projects as they keep up with the work they need to do to safeguard our planet in the face of so much uncertainty.

During these difficult times it really helps to carve out some breathers and gather in community. We did that a few times over the past month when we came together for a staff picnic and later, a delicious Cinco de Mayo Mexican lunch.

What are you doing to replenish your energy these days? Write in and let us know. We would love to hear from you.

In community,

Your Friends at Earth Island Institute

In a major victory for the environment, a proposed copper and zinc mine in southeast Alaska, just upstream from the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve and the world’s largest congregation of eagles, has been stopped, at least for now. Thanks to 10 years of persistent efforts by environmental and citizen rights groups, including Alaska Clean Water Advocacy, The Palmer Project lost its main funder, Dowa Metals and Mining of Japan, last November. Now, the current owner of the mine, British Colombia-based exploratory company American Pacific Mining, has put the project up for sale. More permanent protections are needed to preserve this world-class ecosystem, but for now we are celebrating this win.
Photo by Andy Heddon.

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), the world’s leading forest and timber certification body, has confirmed what we have long known — the Malaysian timber giant Samling has harvested timber illegally in Sarawak. The findings stem from a complaint filed in 2022 by a coalition of NGOs, including The Borneo Project. After several years of coordinating between the parties and an investigation that primarily used satellite evidence, FSC concluded there is “clear and convincing” proof supporting many of the allegations from the ground. Learn more here.

KIDS for the BAY (KftB) Kindergarten Environmentalists at Nystrom Elementary School recently had the wonderful opportunity to walk from their school campus to nearby Unity Park on the Richmond Greenway. Our KftB educators were joined by volunteers from Urban Tilth, who helped students to explore Greenway Gardens, learn about native plants and pollinators, and participate in a planting project, as part of our partnership with the Richmond Outdoors Coalition. Students learned about the importance of caring for community gardens and green spaces, which provide opportunities for community members to connect with nature and with one another, address food security, and give back to local communities and the planet. Our young environmentalists left Greenway Gardens with a sense of wonder and pride, having left their mark on this special community garden! Read More.

Healthy oceans are essential to life on Earth — but they’re in crisis. An estimated 170 trillion microplastics are now circulating in Earth’s marine ecosystems. Ocean plastic pollution threatens our climate, food security, and the future of the planet. In honor of World Oceans Day, join Plastic Pollution Coalition on June 4 for an expert panel discussion about what is needed for an effective United Nations Global Plastics Treaty — and why it matters so much for our oceans. Don’t miss this important conversation as we head into the next round of UN Plastics Treaty negotiations and the upcoming UN Ocean Conference. Register today.

Register

Since 1997, J’s Grocery in Clarksdale, Mississippi, has been more than just a store — it’s been a symbol of hope, nourishment, and community in the Delta. As a proud Black-owned business, J’s continues its mission with its newly renovated space, offering fresh, locally-sourced produce to families. It also serves as a source of fresh produce for schools and early childcare centers that Mississippi Farm to School Network works with in the Mississippi Delta. J’s serves as a uplifting example of resilience, strength, and the power of community. Read more about this iconic store here.

Power, like water, is meant to flow. Yet across the world, it has been dammed — held back from the very communities that sustain it. As democracy faces mounting threats and climate crises escalate, Women's Earth Alliance (WEA) is working alongside grassroots women leaders who are stepping in — not just to protect their lands, waters, and families, but to reshape decision-making itself. Investing in their leadership isn’t just about gender equity — it’s about building stronger democracies, healthier ecosystems, and more just communities. Read more about how WEA leaders are shaping the future we all need.
Women collecting water. Photo by Women’s Earth Alliance/Global Women’s Water Initiative