Galvanize public opinion via campaigns that expose the risks of leasing in treasured landscapes and build pressure to keep sensitive places off- limits.
Galvanize public opinion via campaigns that expose the risks of leasing in treasured landscapes – e.g. spotlighting a proposed lease near a national park or water source. Use petitions, rallies, and media investigations (for instance, showing orphaned wells leaking in wildlife areas).
Why this works
- Public outrage can sway policymakers – in some cases the Interior Dept.
- deferred leases near Arches NP after an outcry.
- Media stories humanize the issue (like Navajo residents speaking about health impacts), building broad support for “keep it in the ground.”
Natural Resources Defense Council
Tax-deductibleInternational environmental advocacy leveraging science, law, and policy to protect people and nature.
Mechanism
About MediaHow Natural Resources Defense Council uses funding
- Define the objective and the decision-maker for each campaign moment.
- Develop a narrative that connects sensitive places to tangible harms and a clear alternative to new leasing.
- Distribute content through press outreach, community channels, and partner amplification.
- Monitor counter-messaging and respond quickly with verifiable proof points.
- Close the loop by documenting outcomes and resetting the next target.
Milestones
Checkpoints and the expected timing for each step
- 1
Campaign narrative and assets prepared
Near termProof points, spokespeople, and content are ready for a decision window.
- 2
Distribution and rapid response operating
During news cyclesCoverage and partner amplification respond quickly to lease and planning developments.
- 3
Decision-window push delivered
During key momentsPublic pressure aligns to a clear ask and reaches decision-makers.
- 4
Results documented and next target set
After the outcomeA public readout shows what changed and what remains at risk.