Episode 186: Interview with Steve Trent, founder of the Environmental Justice Foundation

In this revealing interview, Steve Trent, the founder of the Environmental Justice Foundation, delves into the Foundation’s pivotal work at the intersection of environmental security and human rights. He underscores the Foundation’s vital role in actively probing and witnessing environmental abuses, and the importance of presenting evidence and information to decision-makers in corporate boardrooms and governments worldwide.

Steve highlights the importance of empowering local communities and giving a voice to the marginalized--at the core of the Environmental Justice Foundation’s work --and their potential to drive significant change. And he discusses ithe Foundation’s ongoing campaign against deep-sea mining, a practice which it vehemently opposes. He compares its destructive nature to the clear-cutting of forests and advocates for increased transparency in decision-making about deep-sea mining, which is too often conducted behind closed doors.

Steve also discusses the Environmental Justice Foundation’s distinct approach to funding, emphasizing their commitment to self-reliance, independence, and transparency, with a focus on delivering tangible benefits. 

Despite facing numerous challenges, Steve maintains an optimistic outlook for the future, drawing inspiration from the engagement and perspective of younger generations. And he encourages listeners to get involved, educate themselves, and support organizations that align with their values.

An eloquent call for environmental justice, transparency, and empowerment of local communities: this interview is essential listening for anyone interested in environmental justice and the long-term wellbeing of our planet.

Steve Trent is the CEO and founder of the Environmental Justice Foundation, a non-governmental organisation that works to secure a world where natural habitats and environments can sustain, and be sustained by, the communities that depend upon them for their basic needs and livelihoods.  

Steve has more than 30 years' experience in environmental and human rights, campaigning for the protection of natural resources, the environment and human rights, taking action to bring about tangible positive change and implementing solutions to ensure genuine long-term sustainability. He has conducted investigations and trained environmental and human rights advocates in more than 25 countries and managed media campaigns in over 15 countries around the world. 

Steve also cofounded WildAid, serving as president for over a decade and leading WildAid’s work in China and India.