“I greatly admire the work of this organization. No group has had a larger impact on the thinking Americans bring to the environment, on the way we, as a nation, converse with the problems that beset the environment.” – Vice President Al Gore

The Environmental Media Association believes that through television, film and music, the entertainment community has the power to influence the environmental awareness of millions of people. This initial concept set the stage for our 1989 launch and it remains a core EMA tenet today.

EMA mobilizes the entertainment industry in educating people about environmental issues, which in turn, inspires them to take action. A pioneer in linking the power of celebrity to environmental awareness, it was EMA who invented the ‘green carpet,’ launching the concept of taking a hybrid or alternative fuel vehicle – not a limo – to high profile awards events and bringing the concept of alternative automotive technology to millions of previously unaware households.

A venerable liaison between the entertainment industry and the environmental community, our role is active and diverse. The annual EMA Awards honor film and television personalities, productions, musicians and musical tours that convey environmental messages in the most creative and influential ways. The EMA Green Seal Awards honor productions and corporate entertainment offices that go green ‘behind the scenes.’ In tandem with the Green Seal Awards, EMA offers practical guidance on how the entertainment industry and individuals can green their day-to-day lives.

Throughout the year, we participate in and create celebrity-driven eco-focused events and salons that garner vital media and public attention. We regularly network with writers, directors and producers, helping shape plotlines that seamlessly incorporate environmental messages. The work that we have done for almost 20 years has helped inspire millions of people to reduce air pollution, ensure clean water for drinking and recreation, protect endangered species, preserve open spaces, minimize waste, promote a safe food supply (go organic!) and live more environmentally sustainable lives.

EMA’s network of environmentally-conscious celebrities, tastemakers, not-for-profit organizations and corporations continues to be one of our greatest assets. From Hollywood royalty to the hottest new celebrities to cutting-edge businesses that work towards environmental change every day, EMA is a powerful force that brings powerful people together on the path to a healthier planet.

EMA is a non-profit 501(c)3 founded in 1989 by Cindy and Alan Horn and Lyn and Norman Lear.

“The Environmental Media Awards mean something more than just recognition of civic courage. They are testimony to the fact that responsible and influential members of the media have a clear understanding of the environment’s crucial importance in our lives today. The time has come for mankind to accept the wise philosophy of Native Americans: we do not inherit this planet, our environment, from our fathers – we are borrowing it from our children.” – Mikhail Gorbachev

For more information about the Environmental Media Association go to www.ema-online.org.