A Global Movement for Environmental Solutions: Harnessing French Expertise for French-American Collaboration
France has long been at the forefront of global environmental action, not only driving policy but also pioneering innovative solutions that address the pressing challenges of our time. Through major initiatives like the Paris Climate Agreement (COP21), France has positioned itself as a leader in shaping sustainable practices that resonate worldwide. The creation of coalitions like the Coalition Française des Fondations pour le Climat (CFFC) in 2020 demonstrates a strong movement toward coordinated action. French environmental philanthropy reflects this commitment: nearly 25% of French foundations focus on environmental causes.
French environmental philanthropy offers a unique opportunity for U.S. donors to support impactful and versatile initiatives. Organizations like Fondation de France, the largest philanthropic network in France, leverage extensive expertise and resources on a national scale, providing a comprehensive level of support to French nonprofits, advancing initiatives like coastline preservation, agroecology, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable agriculture. Friends of Fondation de France is proud to support this network and many other French organizations that stand at the forefront of innovation, research, and long-lasting change in environmental challenges.
In the face of global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation, collaboration is more urgent than ever. This is where the powerful potential of French-American partnerships comes into play. By combining French innovation and research with U.S. philanthropic resources, we can drive large-scale, transformative action that extends beyond borders.
Supporting these efforts is an investment not only in France, but for the broader global community, helping to drive meaningful change that contributes to a sustainable future for all.
Impactful Projects at Friends of Fondation de France
At Friends of Fondation de France, we support numerous innovative nonprofit organizations, offering U.S. donors secure, tax-deductible ways to support initiatives tackling environmental education, preservation, and sustainability. These 11 projects are at the forefront of driving positive change, employing impactful ecological strategies in diverse sectors. Through their work, they not only address local environmental concerns but also contribute to global climate action, fostering a cross-cultural, collaborative effort to build a more sustainable future for all.
Fondation CNRS
With over 1,300 yearly collaborative research publications on environmental and ecological issues with leading American institutions, the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) Foundation is at the forefront of advancing environmental sciences. Through a partnership with the University of Arizona, CNRS has launched an International Research Center specializing in future planet habitability, climate change and health, and large scale food and water solutions.
One example is research into the benefits of agrivolatics: the use of solar panels in agricultural fields to capitalize on food and energy production simultaneously, while also minimizing water use through innovative water recycling. By addressing critical environmental challenges, CNRS researchers contribute solutions to preserve biodiversity, protect ecosystems, and promote sustainable practices, reinforcing global efforts to tackle climate change and environmental degradation.
Fondation des Parcs et Jardins de France
This foundation has made remarkable strides in preserving France’s historic parks and gardens, which are crucial for biodiversity conservation and enhancing urban sustainability. The foundation’s efforts help reduce carbon footprints by maintaining green spaces that act as carbon sinks, while also providing public education on the importance of ecological preservation. They support a network of over 1,500 parks and gardens in France, positively impacting local ecosystems and public awareness of environmental stewardship.
Fondation Ecotone
Fondation Ecotone is dedicated to addressing biodiversity loss and environmental degradation caused by intensive agriculture. Their work focuses on sustainable farming practices, reforestation, and water conservation to restore ecosystems. Key initiatives include restoring organic farming methods in Provence, planting hedgerows across France to combat biodiversity collapse, and collaborating on research to improve sustainable food production. Their work in reforestation and sustainable farming models is critical as the world faces growing pressures related to food security and climate change, with their initiatives significantly reducing soil erosion and increasing carbon sequestration in affected regions.
Malandain Ballet Biarritz
Malandain Ballet in Biarritz combines the power of dance with environmental advocacy to raise awareness about sustainability and climate change. Through their Art and Environment program, the company integrates ecological themes into their performances, using dance to engage audiences in the conversation around environmental issues. Their initiatives aim to inspire both artists and audiences to take action in the fight for a more sustainable future, blending creativity with environmental responsibility.
Fondation Institut Lyfe
Fondation Institut Lyfe focuses on sustainable food transition, addressing environmental challenges by promoting healthy, sustainable diets for all. Through its Research Centre, it conducts scientific research on food sustainability and works to reduce the environmental impact of food systems. The foundation’s efforts contribute to shaping responsible culinary practices and training future leaders in the food service sector, supporting both human health and environmental sustainability.
Fondation Paul et Hélène Jourde
Founded by Paul and Hélène Jourde, the foundation supports the Parc de Branféré in Brittany, France, a 44-acre park dedicated to biodiversity conservation and sustainable coexistence. Through its work, the foundation helps protect endangered species and promotes ecological awareness. By advancing scientific research and fostering environmental stewardship, the foundation contributes to global efforts to safeguard biodiversity, making a lasting impact on the planet’s future. This year, the park celebrates its 60th anniversary! Join us in keeping this haven for biodiversity open for many more generations to come.
Hameaux Légers
Dedicated to sustainable housing and rural community development, Hameaux Légers creates eco-friendly communities that aim to minimize carbon footprints while fostering community resilience. Their efforts in constructing eco-villages with 100% reversible housing have not only reduced the environmental impact of urban sprawl but also provided local communities with sustainable living alternatives that improve quality of life while reducing energy consumption.
Océan Polaire
Founded by French explorer Jean-Louis Etienne in 1991, Océan Polaire focuses on enhancing our understanding of the role polar oceans play in climate evolution. The foundation conducts scientific expeditions to promote marine protected areas, measure CO2 absorption by polar oceans, and study microplastics. Their work also supports the discovery and preservation of marine species and the analysis of water quality to protect human health.
UTMB Cares
UTMB Cares is a global initiative uniting trail running communities to create positive social and environmental change. The foundation funds projects focused on preserving and restoring natural landscapes, reforestation, biodiversity conservation, and trail maintenance. For example, in 2023, UTMB Cares supported the Mosquito Fire Relief project during the HOKA Canyons Endurance Run, aiding reforestation efforts in areas impacted by one of California’s largest wildfires. The foundation also encourages sustainable sports practices and environmental responsibility among athletes and the wider community.
JAFOWA (Joint Action for Farmers’ Organizations in West Africa)
Since 2016, Fondation de France has supported JAFOWA program, a collaborative initiative with international foundations. This program mobilizes and supports farming organizations across West Africa, focusing on developing ecological and sustainable farming practices. By providing resources, training, and support, JAFOWA helps empower women, young people, and entire communities to become more self-reliant, contributing to a more sustainable agricultural future in the region.
Fondation de France’s Coast and Sea Program
This program at the Fondation de France addresses the pressing challenges faced by coastal areas due to climate change, pollution, and mass tourism. Coastlines are vital to us and the environment: they contain 80% of marine biodiversity and 20% of the global population. Since 2011, the program has supported over 200 initiatives, bringing together scientists, local authorities, and community groups to develop sustainable management practices.
Key projects include Plages Vivantes, which engages schoolchildren in measuring climate change impacts on sea wrack, and REVE Cot, a virtual reality project exploring the effects of rising sea levels on coastal cities. Through these efforts, Fondation de France fosters collaboration and innovative solutions to protect fragile coastal ecosystems.
Together, We Can Build a Sustainable Future
These pioneering French foundations are making a significant impact in preserving our planet’s biodiversity and ecosystems. From supporting reforestation efforts and marine conservation projects to advancing research on endangered species and sustainable agriculture, their work is vital to a healthier, more sustainable world.
Through Friends of Fondation de France, U.S. donors can make secure, tax-deductible contributions that directly support these initiatives. Your support can help fund vital projects that focus on the environment from diverse industries and perspectives.
By joining these efforts, you’ll contribute to global partnerships that amplify the impact of these organizations and help restore ecosystems for future generations. Learn more about how you can get involved and make a lasting difference for the planet.
Cover photo: Parc Floral de Haute-Bretagne © Comité des Parcs et Jardins de France
