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A Comparative Analysis of the Vision and Mission Statements of International Environmental Organisations

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  • Claudio Campagna
  • Teresita Fernà Ndez

Abstract

The vision and mission statements of 24 environmental organisations were analysed under the premise that the language used in these statements reflects and influences the priorities of their operation. A dominant perspective, hinging on the concept of ‘sustainable development’, merged the profile of government agencies and non-governmental groups. The language reflected an utilitarian ethics: the environment was more generally portrayed as resources than as nature. Aesthetic remarks were exceptional, even among groups focusing on wildlife. Despite a broadly claimed link between human welfare and habitat viability, environmental issues were not broadly referred to by humanitarian organisations, while conservation groups comply with societal priorities and needs. Organisational statements seem more concerned about political legitimation by audiences with specific expectations than about articulating purposes with internal structural consequences or goals that advocate change or reflect organisational uniqueness.

Suggested Citation

  • Claudio Campagna & Teresita Fernà Ndez, 2007. "A Comparative Analysis of the Vision and Mission Statements of International Environmental Organisations," Environmental Values, , vol. 16(3), pages 369-398, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envval:v:16:y:2007:i:3:p:369-398
    DOI: 10.3197/096327107X228409
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Christopher C. Morphew & Matthew Hartley, 2006. "Mission Statements: A Thematic Analysis of Rhetoric across Institutional Type," The Journal of Higher Education, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 77(3), pages 456-471, May.
    2. Shi, Tian, 2004. "Ecological economics as a policy science: rhetoric or commitment towards an improved decision-making process on sustainability," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 48(1), pages 23-36, January.
    3. Tuovi Allèn, 1992. "Economic Development and the Feminisation of Poverty," International Economic Association Series, in: Nancy Folbre & Barbara Bergmann & Bina Agarwal & Maria Floro (ed.), Women’s Work in the World Economy, chapter 5, pages 107-119, Palgrave Macmillan.
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    Cited by:

    1. Isis Brook, 2008. "Convergence, Divergence and the Complex Nature of Environmental Problems," Environmental Values, , vol. 17(1), pages 1-3, February.

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