What is GreenNet?

GreenNet is a not-for-profit ethical collective ISP. It was set up in 1985 as an effective and cheap way for environmental activists to communicate – long before the web and dot-coms. Unlike many other internet service providers, GreenNet is geared to the needs of activist organisations and individuals working for social change. Our use of networking technology focuses on supporting and promoting their work for peace, human rights and the environment.

As part of our work within the NGO community, we set up the GreenNet Educational Trust in 1994 as a registered charity which can spend any profits from GreenNet's activities on support and promotion of the use of ICTs. GreenNet is also a founding member of the Association for Progressive Communications (APC), a global network of networks that work for peace, human rights and the environment through the use of ICTs.

What is a collective?

A collective organisation is one in which a group of people work together on the basis of equal benefit to all. There is no hierarchical structure, the organisation is jointly operated, with all staff members having equal decision-making powers, and equal responsibility. In the case of the GreenNet collective, staff members do not benefit from GreenNet's profits, or have any shares in GreenNet. GreenNet is owned by the GreenNet Educational Trust (GET), a registered charity (registered charity no. 1037080), so it is not strictly a workers' co-op, but functions similarly. Any profit made by GreenNet goes directly into GET towards the implementation of projects.

Who uses GreenNet?

GreenNet has developed specifically to support activists and small- to medium-sized non-governmental organisations. GreenNet designs and hosts web sites for organisations whose work is consistent with our mission, which is to work with movements for peace, economic and social justice, human rights and environmental sustainability around the world. Check the Network section of this site to see some of the groups using GreenNet.

How can I support GreenNet?

For GreenNet to survive and develop we need the continued support of our users and to recruit new members. You can help by simply promoting an account with GreenNet, or advertising our services at an event you are attending. We also organise ad swaps with users and attend users events and conferences.

If you can help with GreenNet outreach, please email info@gn.apc.org

If you are interested in helping our work, you can volunteer to help and lend your skills to further the projects. If there is an area that you would like to get more involved with, please get in touch.

You can also contribute towards the work of the GreenNet Educational Trust in similar ways, including donating your time or resources to help implement the charity's objectives.