Rainforest Action Network

Since its founding in 1985, the Rainforest Action Network (RAN) has worked to save the rainforests as well as to protect the human rights of those living in and near them. RAN does this via education, communication, and direct action. RAN began by convening the first worldwide conference of various groups that worked to formulate a plan for saving the rainforests; several other conventions have since followed. By supporting activists in and near the rainforests, and by making citizens of the United States aware of the problems, the network has helped strengthen the worldwide movement for conservation of rainforests.

Nonviolent direct action is one of the most successful methods by which the network achieves results. The network encourages its members and the public in general to express their convictions by writing letters and participating in nonviolent protests. Once such direct action was the 1987 nationwide boycott of Burger King. Because Burger King was importing beef from tropical countries where rainforests are stripped to provide pasture for cattle, RAN called for a boycott of the fast-food chain. The subsequent drop in sales influenced Burger King to cancel its beef contracts with Central American countries and announce that it had stopped importing beef from the rainforest countries.

Another important method through which RAN accomplishes its goals is its close connections to its grassroots organizations. The network stays connected to its members through monthly action alerts; members use their voices not only to educate their communities and families but also call them to action.

RAN also engages in consumer education in the United States. It strives to make consumers aware of how their consumption patterns contribute to rainforest deforestation and how their actions and choices at home can help protect rainforests.

Although many organizations do work on the rain-forest issue, RAN is distinguished from the others by its emphasis on grassroots organizations and its dedication and ability to incite citizens to respond to the threats against the rainforests.