International Rivers protects rivers and defends the rights of communities that depend on them. IR seeks a world in which rivers and the ecosystems they support are valued, and the importance of the links between healthy environments and healthy societies is understood. We envision a world where development projects neither degrade nature nor impoverish people, and where all people have a voice in decisions affecting their lives and livelihoods.

Description:
IR opposes destructive dams and the development model they advance, and encourages better ways of meeting people’s needs for water, energy and protection from destructive floods. To achieve this mission, IR collaborates with a global network of local communities, social movements, non–governmental organizations and other partners. Through research, education and advocacy, IR works to halt destructive river infrastructure projects, address the legacies of existing projects, improve development policies and practices, and promote water and energy solutions for a just and sustainable world. The primary focus of IR's work is in the global South.

History:
IR was established in 1985 as a nonprofit all–volunteer organization of activists experienced in fighting economically, environmentally, and socially unsound river intervention projects. Aware that similar projects and struggles were happening in other countries, IR opened a communication channel with local river activists worldwide. In 1989, IR began to develop a staff of experienced activists trained in economics, biology, engineering, hydrology, anthropology, and environmental sciences. Over the years, IR has increased its permanent staff to more than fifteen and created a worldwide network of supporters, funders, advisors, interns and volunteers.

Contact person: E Brink, Internship And Volunteer Coordinator, (phone), (email)
Office fax number: (510) 848-1008

Address:

1847 Berkeley Way Berkeley, CA 94703 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.internationalrivers.org

Directions:

IRN is located at 1847 Berkeley Way, the cross street is Martin Luther King Jr Way, one block north of University Avenue.   Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: Downtown BART,   Walk distance (in minutes): 10   Nearest Bus Stop: AC Transit, University and MLK, 2 minute walk