Directory of Nature Charities & Organisations
The UK is home to an extraordinary network of charities and organisations working to protect wildlife, restore habitats, safeguard the environment, and inspire people to reconnect with nature. This directory brings those organisations together in one place — from national conservation charities with decades of experience, to smaller regional groups making a difference in their local landscapes.
Whether you’re looking for expert guidance, volunteer opportunities, educational resources, or ways to support nature recovery, this directory is designed to help you find the right organisation quickly and easily. It begins with national charities covering everything from climate action to species protection, and will grow to include regional and county‑level groups across the UK.
Nature thrives when communities, charities, and individuals work together. This directory is here to make that connection simpler, clearer, and more accessible for everyone who cares about the natural world.
UK-Wide Nature Charities
Including registered charities, CICs, coalitions, and alliances.
National Conservation & Environment Charities
The Wildlife Trusts form a UK‑wide movement working to restore nature and protect wild places. While made up of local trusts, the national body coordinates campaigns, policy work and major conservation initiatives that influence nature recovery across the whole country.
RSPB is one of the UK’s largest conservation charities, protecting habitats, restoring landscapes and supporting wildlife through science‑based projects. Its work goes far beyond birds, covering ecosystems, climate resilience and nature advocacy across the UK.
WWF‑UK focuses on protecting nature, tackling climate change and promoting sustainable living. As part of a global network, it delivers UK‑specific conservation programmes, research and campaigns aimed at reversing biodiversity loss and supporting environmental recovery.
The National Trust cares for vast areas of countryside, coastline and heritage sites across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Its conservation work includes habitat restoration, species protection and landscape management on a national scale.
The Woodland Trust works across the UK to protect ancient woodland, create new forests and champion the importance of trees for wildlife and climate. Its projects support long‑term nature recovery and carbon capture through practical, large‑scale action.
The Rivers Trust is the national body supporting river conservation groups across the UK. It leads research, restoration projects and policy work aimed at improving water quality, restoring freshwater habitats and protecting river ecosystems.
The Marine Conservation Society works across UK seas and coastlines to protect marine wildlife and habitats. Through research, campaigns and community action, it promotes cleaner oceans, sustainable fishing and healthier marine ecosystems.
Friends of the Earth campaigns nationally on environmental protection, climate justice and nature recovery. Its UK‑wide work focuses on policy change, community empowerment and tackling the root causes of environmental decline.
Greenpeace UK is part of a global environmental movement, running national campaigns to protect nature, reduce pollution and address climate change. Its work combines research, advocacy and public engagement to push for systemic environmental change.
Earthwatch Europe connects people with environmental science through citizen‑science projects and community programmes. Its UK‑wide work focuses on urban nature, climate resilience and practical conservation supported by public participation.
Rewilding Britain promotes large‑scale nature restoration across the UK, supporting projects that revive ecosystems, restore natural processes and create space for wildlife. Its work blends science, advocacy and practical rewilding initiatives.
Surfers Against Sewage campaigns nationally for cleaner seas, rivers and coastlines. Originally focused on ocean pollution, it now tackles water quality, plastic waste and environmental protection through community action and policy change.
The Climate Coalition unites over a hundred organisations working to protect nature and address climate change. It coordinates national campaigns, public engagement and advocacy aimed at securing a safer, greener future.
Wildlife & Species‑Focused Charities
Butterfly Conservation works across the UK to protect butterflies, moths and the habitats they depend on. Through research, habitat restoration and public involvement, the charity helps reverse declines in some of the country’s most sensitive and important indicator species..
The Bumblebee Conservation Trust focuses on safeguarding the UK’s bumblebee populations, many of which are in long‑term decline. Its work combines scientific monitoring, habitat creation and community engagement to support pollinators essential to healthy ecosystems.
Bat Conservation Trust leads national efforts to protect bats and their roosts, combining scientific research with public education and conservation projects. The charity works with communities, ecologists and policymakers to ensure these often‑misunderstood mammals have a secure future.
Buglife is the UK’s charity dedicated to protecting invertebrates, from beetles and bees to freshwater species. It works nationally to restore habitats, reduce pollution and raise awareness of the vital role small creatures play in supporting biodiversity and natural processes.
PTES supports conservation projects for endangered species across the UK, funding research, habitat restoration and long‑term monitoring. Its work helps protect mammals, invertebrates and plants facing serious threats from habitat loss and environmental change.
ARC works across the UK to protect native reptiles and amphibians, many of which are vulnerable or declining. The charity manages key habitats, supports scientific research and runs national monitoring programmes to safeguard these often‑overlooked species.
The Mammal Society focuses on improving the conservation and understanding of the UK’s wild mammals. Through research, training and national surveys, it provides essential data and guidance that supports better protection for species from hedgehogs to pine martens.
Froglife is a UK‑wide charity dedicated to amphibian and reptile conservation, with a strong emphasis on community involvement. It restores ponds, wetlands and green spaces while helping people connect with the wildlife living in these habitats.
WDC works internationally but has a strong UK‑wide presence, protecting whales, dolphins and porpoises through research, advocacy and public engagement. Its UK work focuses on reducing threats such as pollution, entanglement and disturbance.
The Seal Alliance brings together organisations working to protect UK seal populations. It promotes responsible wildlife watching, supports conservation research and raises awareness of the pressures seals face along the UK’s coasts.
Although best known for domestic animal welfare, the RSPCA also plays a significant role in protecting UK wildlife. It rescues injured wild animals, supports habitat protection and advocates for policies that reduce harm to native species.
IFAW UK works to protect wildlife both globally and within the UK, focusing on species threatened by habitat loss, exploitation and environmental change. Its UK programmes support rescue, advocacy and public awareness around wildlife protection.
This UK‑wide network brings together charities and community groups working to halt hedgehog decline. It promotes habitat connectivity, safe urban design and public awareness to support one of the UK’s most loved mammals.
A collaborative network of organisations working to improve conditions for pollinating insects. It supports national campaigns, research and habitat creation to help bees, butterflies and other pollinators recover.
Habitat, Landscape & Restoration Organisations
Rewilding Britain promotes large‑scale nature recovery by restoring natural processes and creating wilder landscapes across the UK. It supports rewilding projects, provides guidance to landowners and campaigns for policies that allow ecosystems to rebuild themselves.
Plantlife works across the UK to protect wild plants, fungi and the habitats they depend on. Its projects range from meadow restoration to peatland conservation, helping safeguard botanical diversity and the ecosystems shaped by it.
TCV engages communities in practical conservation work, restoring green spaces, woodlands and habitats across the UK. Its projects help improve biodiversity while giving people hands‑on opportunities to care for nature in their local landscapes.
The Rivers Trust leads national efforts to restore freshwater ecosystems, supporting local river trusts with research, expertise and coordination. Its work focuses on improving water quality, repairing damaged habitats and promoting healthier river catchments.
The Canal & River Trust cares for thousands of miles of canals, rivers and towpaths across England and Wales, restoring freshwater habitats and supporting the wildlife that depends on them. Its work blends conservation, heritage protection and community involvement to keep these blue‑green corridors healthy and accessible.
WWT protects and restores wetlands across the UK, creating and managing habitats that support birds, mammals and countless other species. Its conservation work combines scientific research with practical restoration to revive these vital ecosystems.
Earthwatch Europe runs citizen‑science and community‑based projects that help restore urban and rural habitats. Its work supports climate resilience, tree planting, soil health and nature‑based solutions that strengthen ecosystems across the UK.
The Moorland Association works to conserve and restore the UK’s upland moor habitats. It promotes sustainable land management, peatland recovery and practices that support wildlife, carbon storage and long‑term landscape health.
The John Muir Trust cares for wild land across the UK, protecting mountain, moor and coastal habitats. Its work focuses on restoring natural processes, reducing ecological pressures and ensuring wild places remain healthy for future generations.
The Woodland Trust is a major habitat‑restoration organisation. It protects ancient woodland, creates new forests and restores degraded habitats to support wildlife and climate recovery across the UK.
The National Trust manages vast areas of countryside and coastline, restoring habitats, improving biodiversity and protecting landscapes at a national scale.
This UK‑wide alliance promotes the restoration of peatlands, vital habitats for wildlife and carbon storage. It supports research, coordinates projects and advocates for policies that protect these threatened landscapes.
Climate, Sustainability & Environmental Campaigning Groups
Greenpeace UK runs national campaigns to reduce pollution, protect ecosystems and push for sustainable policies. It combines research, public mobilisation and advocacy to challenge industries and decisions that threaten the environment.
Friends of the Earth campaigns across England, Wales and Northern Ireland to tackle climate change, protect nature and promote environmental justice. Its national work focuses on policy change, community action and empowering people to challenge environmental harm.
The Climate Coalition brings together more than a hundred organisations working to protect nature and address climate change. It coordinates national campaigns, public engagement and advocacy to encourage stronger climate action and a safer future.
Earthwatch Europe supports climate resilience and sustainability through citizen‑science projects and community programmes. Its work helps people understand environmental change and take practical action to improve local ecosystems and urban environments.
Surfers Against Sewage campaigns nationally for cleaner seas, rivers and coastlines, tackling pollution, plastic waste and water quality issues. Its climate‑focused work highlights how environmental health, community wellbeing and ocean protection are deeply connected.
Global Action Plan works across the UK to promote sustainable living and reduce environmental impact. It focuses on behaviour change, youth engagement and practical programmes that help communities and organisations cut pollution and carbon emissions.
The Carbon Literacy Project provides training and resources that help people and organisations understand climate change and take meaningful action. Its UK‑wide programmes support carbon reduction through education, awareness and practical steps.
Possible is a UK charity promoting climate solutions people can take part in right now. It runs national campaigns on clean travel, community energy, tree planting and climate‑positive behaviour, making climate action accessible and engaging.
Green Alliance is a UK think tank focused on environmental policy and sustainable solutions. It works with government, businesses and civil society to develop strategies that support climate action, nature recovery and long‑term environmental protection.
Marine & Coastal Organisations
The Marine Conservation Society works across the UK to protect and restore ocean habitats, improve water quality and reduce pollution. Through science‑led campaigns, community beach cleans and policy advocacy, it aims to create cleaner, healthier seas for wildlife and people.
Surfers Against Sewage campaigns nationally for cleaner seas, rivers and coastlines. It tackles sewage pollution, plastic waste and water quality issues through public mobilisation, community action and environmental advocacy, helping protect both marine life and coastal communities.
Blue Marine Foundation works across UK waters to restore marine habitats and promote sustainable fishing. Its projects focus on creating effective marine protected areas, reducing harmful fishing practices and supporting long‑term ocean recovery..
The Ocean Conservation Trust focuses on restoring ocean health through habitat regeneration, public engagement and marine education. Its UK‑wide work includes seagrass restoration, conservation science and programmes that help people connect with the marine environment.
The Sea Life Trust supports marine wildlife through rescue, rehabilitation and habitat protection. Its UK‑wide initiatives include campaigns against ocean pollution, conservation projects and public education aimed at safeguarding marine species.
The Shark Trust works across the UK to protect sharks, skates and rays through science, advocacy and public involvement. It promotes sustainable fisheries, supports research and raises awareness of the pressures facing these important marine species.
WDC protects whales, dolphins and porpoises in UK waters through research, campaigning and community engagement. Its work focuses on reducing threats such as pollution, entanglement and disturbance, helping safeguard these highly vulnerable marine mammals.
Sea Changers funds and supports UK‑wide marine conservation projects, from habitat restoration to community engagement. By awarding grants to grassroots initiatives, it helps strengthen local action that contributes to healthier seas and coastlines.
MARINElife conducts scientific surveys and research on marine wildlife in UK waters, helping build a clearer picture of how species are affected by environmental change. Its work supports conservation planning and raises awareness of the importance of ocean biodiversity.
UOcean 2050 is a UK‑wide initiative focused on removing plastic waste from rivers, beaches and coastal areas. Through volunteer mobilisation and public campaigns, it aims to reduce pollution and support cleaner, healthier waterways and seas.
Environmental Research, Science & Education Bodies
NERC is the UK’s main public body funding environmental science, supporting research into ecosystems, climate, geology, oceans and atmospheric change. It leads national scientific programmes and operates major research centres that help improve understanding of how the planet is changing.
The British Geological Survey is the UK’s national centre for earth science, researching geology, groundwater, natural hazards and environmental change. It provides authoritative data and expertise that support conservation, land management and sustainable development across the UK.
NCAS delivers UK‑wide research on air pollution, climate and atmospheric processes. It provides advanced modelling, observational facilities and scientific expertise that help understand weather extremes, long‑term climate trends and environmental risks.
ASE is a UK‑wide professional body supporting science education, including environmental and ecological learning. It provides resources, training and networks that help teachers deliver high‑quality science education and inspire interest in environmental issues.
IES is a UK‑wide professional membership body for environmental scientists, promoting evidence‑based environmental practice and policy. It supports professionals working across ecology, air quality, climate science and sustainability through training, research and collaboration.