This book explores the important changes in the nature and role of national environmental pressure groups in Britain during the last ten years. This period has been a remarkable phase in the development of environmentalism as a local, national and international movement. In Britain, these years have seen dramatic growth in support and greater political influence for the environmental movement, particularly at the national level where environmental groups have become increasingly professional and well-resourced organizations. Applying social movement and political theory, the book examines this period in detail and begins to assess its implications, both for these organizations and for environmentalism itself. Drawing on interviews with many leaders and campaigners--both past and present--of the largest national groups, Peter Rawcliffe explores changes in their mobilization, organization and impact during the last ten years.
Peter Rawcliffe is National Strategy Officer with Scottish Natural Heritage in Edinburgh.