Audubon International

Audubon International is a not for profit 501(c)(3) environmental education organization based in Troy, New York. Established in 1987, the organization works with communities, developments, resorts and golf courses in 36 countries to plan and implement sustainable natural resource management practices, as well as receive public recognition (through certification processes) for employing sound environmental stewardship. It is the first organization to work extensively with the golf industry on sustainability issues, and has a long history of partnering with industry associations such as the United States Golf Association (USGA).

The organization has been recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and other members of environmental community for enabling facilities adopt design and operations practices that are consistent with principles of sustainability. Central to Audubon International's core value system is the belief that voluntary education and certification programs can simultaneously advance ecological, economic and social goals.

The organization is not affiliated with the National Audubon Society, which sued to prevent the organization from using the Audubon name. In 1991 a judge ruled that the National Audubon Society did not hold an exclusive right to the name Audubon, and had not shown that the use of the name by Audubon International was causing confusion.

The mission of Audubon International is to deliver high-quality environmental education and facilitate the sustainable management of land, water, wildlife, and other natural resources in all places people live, work, and play.

Through education, technical assistance, certification, and recognition, Audubon International facilitates the implementation of environmental management practices that ensure natural resources are sustainably used and conserved. Audubon International is able to positively impact environmental health at multiple geographic scales, including individual properties, communities, and ecoregions. In fact, throughout its history, Audubon International has enrolled over 3,000 properties (including golf courses, cemeteries, ski areas, housing developments, hotels, and many others) and communities in its rigorous certification programs. The organization has been successful due in large part to its successful relationships with a wide range of interested partners, including small businesses, large corporations, academic institutions, fellow not-for-profits, community associations, local governments, and state and federal agencies.

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