Climate Initiative

Audubon’s own science shows that climate change is by far the biggest threat to the birds that we love. That’s why Audubon works for solutions to counteract the effects of climate change and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This means not only dramatically reducing carbon emissions, but offsetting what we cannot eliminate, for instance by maintaining healthy forests or supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

Audubon's Federal Campaign

Audubon works with federal decision makers both in the nation’s capital and at home in their backyards to achieve common sense solutions to climate change. We engage with our 1.8 million members and the 45 million Americans who consider themselves bird lovers to make complex environmental impacts tangible.

Audubon's State and Local Campaigns

Audubon members, staff, and volunteers descend on the Washington state capitol to speak with their local representatives on Environmental Lobby Day in January of 2019. Photo: Luke Franke/Audubon

Audubon is local everywhere. With leadership in 18 state and regional offices, and with chapters and members in all 50 states, Audubon has the presence and a committed membership to react to our changing climate in communities across the country. Our national staff works with our local offices and partners to find solutions that make sense for each region where we work, and that resonate on a wider level to help create lasting protections for birds and the places they need nationwide.

Audubon's Renewables Policy

Thanks to major advances in technology, renewable energy has become increasingly more affordable and obtainable for both businesses and individual homes. That’s good news for people and birds, since adopting renewable energy is critical to reducing pollution, lowering global temperatures, and preserving the places that birds need to survive. That’s why Audubon strongly supports renewable energy – including solar, wind, and geothermal power – that is properly sited in ways that avoid, minimize, and mitigate negative impacts on birds and other wildlife. We also advocate that Congress and wildlife agencies should ensure strong enforcement of laws that protect birds and wildlife, like the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Audubon's Climate News

The Audubon Guide to Climate Action

Feeling like you can't make a difference? That couldn't be further from the truth. Here's how to get started.

Survival by Degrees: 389 Bird Species on the Brink

Read Audubon's new climate report, which finds that two-thirds of North American birds are at increasing risk of extinction from global temperature rise. Find out how species in your state will be affected, and which birds we can help by acting now.

Climate

Glistening Glass Sculptures in the Desert Explore Bird Molt and Gender Transition

By Helen Santoro

Through science and art, Silas Fischer explores the connection between Gray Vireos and the researcher's own queerness.

Climate

Nearly Half of the Cassia Crossbill's Population Could Be Lost After Wildfire

By April Reese

The birds live on two small mountain ranges in Idaho, and a blaze recently engulfed one of them. “Our alarm levels should be red," scientist says.

Climate

Can This Critically Endangered Bird Survive Australia's New Climate Reality?

By Paul Bogard

Efforts to save Regent Honeyeaters seem to be working, but scientists and Aboriginal conservationists are on edge as another bushfire season begins.

Climate

Recent ‘Megafires’ Imperil Even Fire-Loving Forest Birds

By Deborah Petersen

Many birds, such as owls and woodpeckers, thrive in forest habitats created after fire. But the hotter, bigger, more destructive megafires out West might be too much even for them.

Climate

False Springs: How Earlier Spring With Climate Change Wreaks Havoc on Birds

By Brooke Bateman

An early spring may sound lovely after a long winter, but can be disastrous for wildlife.

Climate Initiative National Leadership

Andrew Mills

Vice President, Political Affairs

Claire Douglass

Director of National Campaigns

Lisa Hardaway

Vice President, Communications

Sarah Greenberger

Senior Vice President, Conservation Policy

Michael Obeiter

Senior Director, Federal Climate Strategy

Robyn Shepherd

Communications Director, Advocacy

Jesse Walls

Senior Director, Government Affairs

Gary Moody

Director, State and Local Climate Strategy

Audubon's Climate Science

From community science observations to in-depth research from our staff scientists, Audubon applies its cutting-edge science in conservation, mitigation, and adaptation efforts across the United States and into Central and South America, where many of America’s climate-sensitive birds spend their winters.

Climate