Our Vision

An Ireland where our environment, natural and built, is actively prioritised and a lasting legacy of sustainability and resilience is ensured.

Our Mission

To maximise appreciation of the interdependence of all elements of the biosphere together with a greater awareness of the damaging impacts of human activity on fragile ecosystems and the built environment. 

To educate and advocate on behalf of present and future generations on the important choices we must make in search of a more environmentally sustainable future. 

We will adopt a robust, integrated approach that defends the importance of species diversity and living within planetary boundaries.

Values

The values underpinning An Taisce's work include acting with integrity, relying on the best available science, promoting inclusion and community participation at all levels and displaying leadership and courage in pursuing its vision and mission.

Our Structure

An Taisce has three branches:

Our Advocacy Unit focuses on environmental planning and policy. We advocate for sustainable planning and development and other environmental issues on local, national and European levels. We are the only independent environmental non-governmental organisation in Ireland with prescribed status under the Planning Acts. 

Our Education Unit designs and delivers key environmental education programmes, such as Green Schools and Clean Coasts, from Irish and international sponsors giving us links deep into the community for the promotion of environmental objectives.

Through our Properties Unit, An Taisce continues to hold important heritage properties and nature reserves in trust for the Irish public. This portfolio continues to expand most recently with a 2,400 acre cross-border estate in Co. Monaghan and Co. Tyrone.

We work closely with other environmental organisations around the country. We are part of the Irish Environmental Network and the Environmental Pillar. Internationally, we are a member of the International National Trusts Organisation and the European Environmental Bureau. We are also the Irish member of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a global organisation of over 70 nations which is recognised as a world leader in education for sustainable development and environmental education.

Non-Political Affiliation
Our members are all ages and come from all walks of life. The one thing we have in common is our concern for the environment and a shared passion to protect nature and our natural heritage.

In accordance with the guidance note (Feb 2018) issued by the Charities Regulator under section 14 of the Charities Act 2009, An Taisce has a charitable purpose only. An Taisce engages in political activities or promotes a political cause only where that relates directly to the advancement of our charitable purpose. It does not endorse any political party or candidate.