Environmental work is most effective when conducted with a dynamic group of peers. Working with other businesses toward a common goal is among the most rewarding of our environmental initiatives. In 1989, Patagonia co-founded The Conservation Alliance, along with REI, The North Face and Kelty, to encourage other companies in the outdoor industry to give money to environmental organizations and to become more involved in environmental work.

The Alliance now boasts more than 170 member companies, each of which contributes annual dues to a central fund. Patagonia gives to the alliance each year, and maintains a permanent seat on the board of directors. Twice yearly, the Alliance donates 100 percent of its membership dues to grassroots environmental groups working to protect threatened wildlands and biodiversity. They disbursed $900,000 in 2010.

The Alliance has such a strong track record of funding successful projects that Globe Pequot Press published a book chronicling environmental victories supported by the group. Making a Difference profiles the inspiring work of 12 organizations that used Alliance support to protect wild places worldwide.

For more information on The Conservation Alliance and how to join our efforts, check out www.conservationalliance.com

This article is from Patagonia.com.