Shades of Green

Abstract

A schism seems to be emerging between two camps: the dark greens and the bright greens. The dark green ENGOs seek radical social change to solve environmental problems, often by confronting corporations. The bright green ENGOs work within the present system, often in close alliance with corporations, to solve environmental problems. What many in the movement, and society as whole, fail to fully grasp is the extent to which the environmental movement is a complex and interconnected network, one that includes corporations as an integral part. The reality is that the network of the environmental movement in its relationship with corporations has formed in an organic and uncoordinated way, with many ENGOs challenging and competing with each other rather than working in a more concerted fashion. This dynamics seems particularly acute in Washington. But if we can look at this movement through a new lens – a network lens – we can begin to see ways in which to understand the diversity of ways in which corporations and ENGOs engage. By developing a clear “map” of the composite landscape of the environmental movement, NGO managers will be better able to consider their role and place within the overall network. And the corporate manager can better understand where and how they can access it. With this kind of imagery developed, more structured and effective coordination and collaboration becomes possible.