Environmentalism as an Enduring Social Movement

• In Event: How TIME Matters to Movements

Abstract

This paper discusses general theoretical issues that explain why movements endure, and it examines key issues and challenges in the case of the US environmental movement. We draw on our own research as well as the literature on social movements and the environmental movement. We begin with a short history of environmentalism as an enduring social movement. In the US and other countries, the environmental movement emerged in the 19th century and continues to survive, despite many ups and downs over the years. The movement has had important legislative victories as well as other successes such as changes in public consciousness. Environmentalism remains vital, despite its failure to solve major problems, notably climate change, loss of species, and toxic pollution (e.g., plastic). To explain how the environmental movement has endured, we look at movement issues and frames, organizational structures and resources, and strategies and tactics.

Authors

• Suzanne Staggenborg, University of Pittsburgh

• Chie Togami, SUNY