National Geographic Society launches controversial “For Nature” program pushing legal personhood for rivers, forests, and other natural entities, raising concerns among traditional property rights advocates.
At a Glance
- National Geographic Society and The Alfred Kobacker and Elizabeth Trimbach Fund launched “For Nature” program to advance the Rights of Nature movement
- The initiative seeks to give natural entities like rivers and forests legal rights similar to human beings
- Program will fund ten Explorer projects and provide tools for advancing this legal framework worldwide
- Critics warn the movement could undermine traditional property rights and constitutional freedoms
- The Society also runs a separate youth conservation leadership program with The Nature Conservancy
National Geographic’s New Legal Approach to Conservation
National Geographic Society has partnered with The Alfred Kobacker and Elizabeth Trimbach Fund to launch “For Nature,” a new program announced on the International Day for Biological Diversity. The initiative aims to advance the controversial Rights of Nature movement, which seeks to establish legal personhood for natural entities – effectively giving rivers, forests, and other ecosystems the same legal standing as human beings in courts worldwide.
“Recognizing the Rights of Nature is vitally important because it directly changes the way in which society considers Nature in decision making. By utilizing science, community empowerment, and inspiring ethical arguments to be a voice for Nature, we can help combat extinction and contribute to high-impact conservation initiatives that protect endangered species, preserve threatened habitats, and advocate for the Rights of Nature around the world,” said National Geographic Explorer Callie Veelenturf.
The program represents a significant push by powerful environmental organizations to transform how natural resources are viewed under law. Nature will support Veelenturf’s vision and fund ten Explorer projects focused on mobilizing researchers, educating the public, equipping scientists, and influencing policymakers about the Rights of Nature movement.
Program’s Practical Implementation and Goals
The initiative will leverage National Geographic’s vast global reach, including its storytelling platforms, education networks, and communications resources to expand the movement internationally. Plans include developing a toolkit for Rights of Nature advocates, conducting workshops, providing technical assistance, training in storytelling techniques, and producing various media products and research projects.
Ian Miller, National Geographic Society’s Chief Science and Innovation Officer, voiced strong support for the program: “We are excited to join in supporting the efforts of National Geographic Explorer Callie Veelenturf’s vision to bring the Rights of Nature to the forefront of global conservation efforts through the establishment of the For Nature program with the Alfred Kobacker and Elizabeth Trimbach Fund.”
The program represents the largest commitment in the history of the Alfred Kobacker and Elizabeth Trimbach Fund, which was established in 2021 with a focus on equity, human rights, democratic values, and environmental conservation. Unlike traditional charitable funds that support organizations, this fund invests in individuals it believes can drive meaningful change regardless of institutional affiliations.
Youth Leadership Development in Conservation
Separately from the Rights of Nature initiative, National Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy have created an externship program targeting young adults aged 18-25 who are interested in environmental conservation. This leadership experience has already engaged 1,300 participants from 139 countries, with 152 community projects funded and $303,000 awarded in seed funding since its inception.
“Addressing the complex challenges facing the world requires leaders willing to try new approaches and take risks. This partnership is designed to foster those kinds of leaders—our colleagues, partners and advocates of tomorrow,” explains Jennifer Morris of The Nature Conservancy.
The eight-week online program focuses on topics like marine or freshwater conservation and includes virtual classes, mentorships, workshops, and digital presentations. Notable alumni projects include Morgan Foster’s cultural conservation project at Buckroe Beach and Tomás Pinzon’s Festival del Mar in Colombia. This youth engagement represents a complementary approach to the organization’s broader conservation strategy.
Potential Implications for Property Rights
While proponents present the Rights of Nature movement as a necessary evolution in environmental protection, critics have raised concerns about its potential consequences for traditional property rights and constitutional freedoms. The movement essentially seeks to create a legal framework where ecosystems can sue (through human representatives) to protect themselves from perceived harm or exploitation.
National Geographic’s influential backing of this legal concept represents a significant development in how major conservation organizations are approaching environmental protection. By investing in both this rights-based approach and youth leadership development, the organization appears to be pursuing a multi-faceted strategy to transform conservation practices worldwide. The long-term implications of these efforts for property rights, resource management, and environmental policy remain to be seen.
