Dear Greenpeace

Synopsis

Celebrating 25 years of this enchanting ecological fantasy from a multi-award-winning picture book creator.

Worried that the whale living in her pond is unhappy, Emily writes to Greenpeace, who, though offering the best of advice, insist that it is impossible for a whale to live in a pond. Undeterred, Emily continues to seek the best course of action for her beloved whale, finally setting him free.

Summary

Chapter 1: Reflections on a Life in Green

* Summary: Greenpeace founder Bob Hunter recounts his personal journey as an environmental activist, from his early experiences with pollution and habitat destruction to his role in establishing the organization.
* Example: Hunter describes the moment he witnessed a pulp mill dumping toxic waste into the Detroit River, igniting his passion for protecting the environment.

Chapter 2: The Birth of Greenpeace

* Summary: Hunter details the formation of Greenpeace in 1971, as a group of activists united by their belief in nonviolent direct action to protect the planet.
* Example: Greenpeace's first campaign targeted the nuclear weapons testing at Amchitka, Alaska, using a small boat to oppose the tests.

Chapter 3: From Protests to Campaigns

* Summary: Greenpeace evolves from single-issue protests to sustained campaigns addressing global environmental problems, such as deforestation, nuclear waste, and climate change.
* Example: Greenpeace's "Rainbow Warrior" campaign successfully pressured governments to ban nuclear testing at sea.

Chapter 4: The Power of Direct Action

* Summary: Hunter emphasizes the importance of nonviolent direct action as a tool for environmental activism, citing successful examples of Greenpeace's confrontational tactics.
* Example: Greenpeace's use of inflatable zodiac boats to block whaling ships, leading to a moratorium on commercial whaling.

Chapter 5: The Global Greenpeace

* Summary: Greenpeace expands its operations to countries around the world, becoming a truly global movement.
* Example: Greenpeace India campaigns for clean air and water, fighting against industrial pollution and promoting renewable energy.

Chapter 6: The Rise of Climate Change

* Summary: Greenpeace recognizes the urgency of climate change and launches campaigns to raise awareness, advocate for emission reductions, and support renewable energy.
* Example: Greenpeace's "Burning Ice" campaign uses drones and underwater cameras to expose oil drilling in the Arctic and its potential impacts on climate and biodiversity.

Chapter 7: The Future of Greenpeace

* Summary: Hunter shares his thoughts on the future of Greenpeace, emphasizing the need for continued activism and collaboration to protect the planet.
* Example: Greenpeace's "Protect the Oceans" campaign calls for a global treaty to create large-scale marine protected areas and safeguard ocean life.

Chapter 8: Reflections and Advice

* Summary: Hunter offers advice to young activists, encouraging them to be bold, persistent, and work together for a sustainable future.
* Example: Hunter suggests that activists learn from past successes and failures, and seek inspiration from the work of other environmental organizations.