Greenpeace 🌳 Faces Potential Existential Threat From Lawsuit (news)

Using the Whole Whale - A Nonprofit Podcast

Main News Stories Greenpeace Lawsuit

• Energy Transfer (owners of Dakota Access Pipeline) is suing Greenpeace for $300 million in damages
• The lawsuit claims Greenpeace orchestrated protests near Standing Rock, which Greenpeace denies
• Potential damages could reach $800 million with punitive damages, potentially bankrupting Greenpeace USA
• Greenpeace maintains they only supported an indigenous-led movement (involving over 300 tribal nations)
• The hosts discuss concerns about this establishing a dangerous precedent for protest liability and potentially chilling environmental activism
• The case is being heard in a conservative jurisdiction less favorable to activists

Nonprofit Consultant Survey Results

• Fourth annual survey by Nonprofit.ist and Nonprofit Times provides industry benchmarks
• Average consultant rate: $151.19/hour (median: $126)
• Highest rates: consultants specializing in AI technology, fundraising, and coaching
• Higher education correlated with higher rates
• Urban consultants earn significantly more than rural ones
• New consultants with significant nonprofit experience tend to charge less despite deep knowledge

USDA Cancels Local Food Programs

• USDA cut two major local food programs worth over $1 billion in funding:
  • $660 million for Local Food for Schools initiative
  • $420 million for Local Food Purchase Assistant program
• Cuts affect schools and food banks
• Impacts include increased food costs amid inflation and undermining community food systems