Top 10 Environmental NGOs in India 2025
As climate change, deforestation, pollution, and biodiversity loss pose grave threats to the planet, civil society is rising to the occasion. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) across India are stepping up to protect the environment, advocate for policy change, and educate the masses.
At Untold You, we recognize the power of grassroots action. Here’s our curated list of the Top 10 NGOs Working for the Environment in India that are bringing hope, awareness, and solutions to the country’s environmental crisis.
1. Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) – New Delhi
Founded by the late Anil Agarwal, CSE is one of India’s leading public interest research and advocacy organizations. It focuses on sustainable development through environmental education, water conservation, and pollution control.
Key Work Areas:
- Policy advocacy
- Air and water pollution research
- Urban sustainability
Website: www.cseindia.org
2. The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) – New Delhi
A global thought leader in sustainability, TERI works on renewable energy, green buildings, sustainable agriculture, and climate change adaptation.
Known For:
- Organizing the World Sustainable Development Summit
- Working with government and corporate sectors
Website: www.teriin.org
3. Sanctuary Nature Foundation – Mumbai
Founded by Bittu Sahgal, the Sanctuary Nature Foundation is known for conservation journalism, biodiversity protection, and wildlife advocacy through its popular Sanctuary Asia magazine.
Impact Areas:
- Wildlife conservation
- Climate justice
- Community-based eco programs
Website: www.sanctuarynaturefoundation.org
4. Greenpeace India – Bengaluru
Part of the international Greenpeace network, this NGO is known for bold campaigns and climate justice activism. They focus on air quality, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture.
Notable For:
- Peaceful protests and direct action
- Renewable energy campaigns in rural areas
Website: www.greenpeace.org/india
5. Chintan Environmental Research and Action Group – Delhi NCR
Chintan supports informal waste workers and promotes sustainable consumption by working at the intersection of waste management and environmental justice.
Key Initiatives:
- E-waste management
- Empowering ragpickers
- Green schools program
Website: www.chintan-india.org
6. SayTrees – Bengaluru
SayTrees is a citizen-led initiative that focuses on urban afforestation, lake rejuvenation, and climate education through mass tree-planting drives and youth participation.
Noteworthy Work:
- Planted over 1 million trees
- Developed Miyawaki forests in urban areas
Website: www.saytrees.org
7. Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) – Noida
WTI is a dedicated wildlife conservation organization working to protect endangered species and their habitats. Their field projects include elephant corridors and marine life rescue missions.
Focus Areas:
- Anti-poaching campaigns
- Wildlife conflict resolution
- Habitat protection
Website: www.wti.org.in
8. Navdanya – Dehradun
Founded by Dr. Vandana Shiva, Navdanya promotes organic farming, biodiversity conservation, and seed sovereignty. It has trained thousands of farmers in chemical-free, regenerative agriculture.
Core Philosophy:
- Earth democracy
- Indigenous knowledge systems
Website: www.navdanya.org
9. Indian Youth Climate Network (IYCN) – Pan India
IYCN empowers young Indians to take climate action through workshops, fellowships, clean energy programs, and climate education.
Why It’s Unique:
- Youth-led and tech-driven
- Focused on intergenerational climate justice
Website: www.iycn.in
10. Exnora International – Chennai
Started in Tamil Nadu, Exnora promotes practical environmental solutions like solid waste management, green commuting, and eco clubs in schools and communities.
Key Contributions:
- Eco-waste initiatives
- Promoting community engagement
Website: www.exnora.org
Why These NGOs Matter in 2025
In the face of accelerating climate change and ecological destruction, NGOs fill critical gaps where governments and markets fall short. These organizations:
- Raise awareness and drive education
- Mobilize citizens for real action
- Protect vulnerable ecosystems and communities
Their work is especially vital in a country like India, where environmental issues are deeply intertwined with social and economic justice.
Final Words from Untold You
Supporting environmental NGOs doesn’t always mean large donations. You can volunteer, amplify their voices, and adopt sustainable habits inspired by their work.
Let these top 10 NGOs in India be your compass for climate action. To stay informed and live consciously, explore more stories and resources at Untold You.
