On World Earth Day, it’s important to recognize and support the organizations across the Middle East that are leading the charge toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. Whether it’s clearing plastic from coastlines, planting trees, protecting wildlife, or restoring fragile ecosystems, these groups are turning environmental awareness into real action on the ground. Here are some of the organizations you can support to ensure that the Middle East moves toward a greener tomorrow.
Greenpeace MENA
Greenpeace Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is an environmental powerhouse that launched in 2018 with one clear mission: tackling the region’s urgent and complex climate challenges head-on. From rising temperatures to pollution and water stress, the organization works across borders to protect the air we breathe, the land we live on, and the waters we depend on.
Every donation goes directly into the fight for a greener future: safeguarding endangered species, protecting ancient forests, and pushing back against climate change. And importantly, Greenpeace doesn’t take money from governments, corporations, or political parties. It runs entirely on the support of individuals and independent foundations.
Greenpeace MENA collaborates with communities and activists to reduce the environmental, economic, and social impacts of climate disasters. You can support or donate directly through its official website and become part of a movement working to protect the planet.
Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL)
Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) is at the heart of conservation efforts in Lebanon and the wider region. The organization works to identify Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBBAs) and Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs), while also protecting globally threatened species through detailed scientific research, action plans, and public awareness campaigns. Beyond wildlife, SPNL also empowers marginalized communities by connecting conservation with local livelihoods.
In Arabic, Hima means “protected area,” and in practice, it is a community-led conservation model rooted in tradition. Establishing a Hima requires only the agreement of the local municipality, making it flexible, inclusive, and deeply participatory. So far, SPNL has helped create 39 Himas across Lebanon, strengthening the country’s network of protected landscapes alongside forests and nature reserves.
Through its official website, SPNL is currently accepting donations to help protect the Syrian Serin, a small songbird once commonly heard across Lebanon but now critically endangered. Recent field studies suggest its population has dropped dramatically, with fewer than 5,000 individuals remaining worldwide.
Royal Society for Conservation of Nature (RSCN)
What started in 1966 as a small circle of passionate volunteers has grown into one of the region’s leading conservation voices. Back then, the mission was simple but urgent: wildlife was slipping toward extinction, and something had to be done.
Today, the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature plays a major role in safeguarding Jordan’s wild landscapes by establishing and managing ten protected areas across the country. Together, these reserves cover more than 4,656 square kilometers, spanning some of Jordan’s most breathtaking natural environments, helping protect the country’s rich biodiversity.
Beyond protection on the ground, the organization is also building a national network of nature reserves that represents the full diversity of Jordan’s ecosystems. It conducts specialized scientific studies and research to guide conservation efforts, making sure every action is backed by data and long-term planning. Donations can be made through its official website, helping ensure that Jordan’s unique wildlife and landscapes continue to thrive for generations to come.
Arab Group for the Protection of Nature (APN)
Based in Jordan, the Arab Group for the Protection of Nature (APN) is an independent non-profit dedicated to defending the environment and natural resources across Arab countries. Founded in April 2003 by a group of committed environmental advocates, the organization was created with a clear mission: to stand alongside regional and international partners in protecting nature from all forms of threat, including the devastating environmental consequences of wars and foreign occupation.
APN focuses on strengthening the resilience of environmental, agricultural, and food systems in Arab regions affected by conflict, working to restore what has been damaged and support communities that depend on the land to survive.
Its work is rooted in action and participation, and there are many ways to get involved. Through its official website, you can contribute by volunteering in research projects, taking part in tree-planting initiatives, helping organize community events, or raising awareness about environmental issues across the region.
Emirates Environmental Group (EEG)
Founded in 1991 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) is one of the region’s pioneering environmental organizations. EEG works on a wide range of development and sustainability goals, from supporting renewable energy and decent job creation to advancing healthcare, education, sustainable food systems, urban infrastructure, and digital transformation.
On the ground, EEG is best known for its hands-on environmental action. From nationwide clean-up drives to waste collection initiatives across the Emirates, the group actively mobilizes communities to take part in protecting the environment. Its recycling campaigns have had a major impact, one drive in 2005 alone collected an impressive 644,000 kilograms of recyclable materials.
Alongside its fieldwork, EEG also runs awareness campaigns and educational sessions to promote sustainability, recycling, and environmental responsibility among the public. Those interested in getting involved can reach out through its official website or contact the organization directly at 04 344 86 22.
On World Earth Day, it’s important to recognize the environmental organizations across the Middle East working toward a cleaner and more sustainable future. From cleaning up waste and planting trees to protecting endangered species and restoring ecosystems, these groups are driving real change across the region.
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