Mission
The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is an environmental nonprofit that uses the power of law, science, and people to confront climate change, protect public health, and preserve nature. They work globally to ensure clean air, clean water, and healthy communities, harnessing the expertise of their scientists, lawyers, and advocates along with the support of over 3 million members and online activists.
Basic Information
Founded in
1970
EIN
13-2654926
Total Assets
$602.3 million
UN Sustainable Development Goals Supported
This organization contributes to the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. See the SDG page for more information.
At a Glance

Climate Change
NRDC addresses climate change by promoting renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions, and advocating for policies that mitigate environmental impacts. They engage communities in climate action and provide scientific, policy, and legal expertise to drive global solutions.

Nature & Wildlife
NRDC is dedicated to protecting the natural world and its inhabitants. Their initiatives focus on conserving endangered species, safeguarding critical habitats, and advocating against harmful industrial activities that threaten ecosystems.

Human Health
NRDC works to ensure public health by fighting pollution, promoting clean drinking water, and reducing exposure to toxic chemicals. They strive to create healthier environments, particularly for vulnerable communities.
Impact Stats
Waterways Protected
Clean Water Act Passage
In 1972, NRDC played a pivotal role in helping pass the Clean Water Act, which was monumental in regulating and maintaining clean waterways across the United States.
Ozone-Depleting Substances Reduced
Healing the Ozone Layer
In 1987, NRDC's legal and advocacy efforts were instrumental in achieving global policies to phase out ozone-depleting substances, contributing significantly to the healing of the ozone layer.
Pipes Replaced
Flint Lead Pipe Replacement
In 2017, NRDC helped Flint, Michigan residents secure a legal settlement that mandated the replacement of thousands of lead-tainted water pipes, ensuring safer drinking water for the community.
Gallons of Gasoline Saved
Federal Clean Transportation Rules
Since 1975, NRDC's advocacy for federal clean transportation rules has resulted in significant reductions in gasoline usage, marking a milestone in their environmental efforts.
Past Events
Bonnaroo 2023
06/2023
As part of our annual partnership with Bonnaroo, NRDC’s digital activation engaged fans on the urgency of the climate crisis through digital content creation, on-site messaging, and calls to action. Through our partnership with Propeller, festival-goers were able to take climate action with NRDC for a chance to win upgraded artist experiences at Bonnaroo in June 2023.
EXPO CHICAGO
05/2023
NRDC participated for the 10th consecutive year in EXPO CHICAGO, featuring contemporary artists to inspire conversation about key environmental issues. The core exhibit was complemented by additional events and programming to engage the EXPO CHICAGO audience as well as the greater Chicago community.
Night of Comedy
02/2022
NRDC’s Night of Comedy—which helps to raise funds for the organization’s mission-critical work—returned in 2022, and for the first time, the event was hosted on both coasts.
Impact Reports
MIP Score (Beta)
The MIP Score is in beta! We'd love any feedback you may have.
The MIP Score and it's methodology is purely used as a way to visualize how a nonprofits public financial data compares against others. It doesn't reflect the unique circumstances and impact that a nonprofit has.The MIP Score should never be used to say one charity is better than another.
Overall Score
81
80
/100
Program Expense Ratio
80.14%
12
/20
Program Revenue Growth
50.59%
20
/20
Leverage Ratio
0.2097
14
/20
Working Capital Ratio
2.245
14
/20
Fundraising Efficiency
0.03182
20
/20
Latest Filing Data: Form 990
Fiscal Year:2021
Source:Source: Self-reported by organization
Financial Details
Revenue
Category | Amount | Percentage |
---|---|---|
Contributions, Gifts, and Grants | 179M | 96.12% |
Program Services | 3.283M | 1.76% |
Investment Income | 360.2K | 0.19% |
Sales of Non-Inventory Assets | 3.76M | 2.02% |
Other Notable Sources | 158.8K | 0.09% |
Total Revenue | 186.2M | 100.00% |
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