Dear John,
I’m Asad Rehman, the new Executive Director of Friends of the Earth. I want to say a quick hello because it’s you – the people in our incredible network – that make this such an exciting and powerful place to be.
I’ll be responsible for leading the organisation in its fight for a better future for people and planet – and I couldn’t be more proud to be stepping into this role.
I’m moving here from the anti-poverty and social justice charity War on Want. But as some of you will know this isn’t my first time at Friends of the Earth. I spent 11 years here as head of international campaigning and I can’t wait to get stuck back in.
Friends of the Earth has always stood apart as a radical force within the environmental movement, harnessing the power of grassroots campaigning and supporters like you to challenge the systems that drive inequality and environmental decline. It was these values that first brought me here nearly two decades ago. And transformed me from a reluctant environmentalist to a passionate advocate for environmental justice.
There’s no doubt we’re at a critical juncture for our ailing planet. But instead of giving in to despair, it’s time for our movement to double down, build power from the ground up, and stand in solidarity with all those fighting for a fairer, more just world.
Environmental justice is not just about saving the planet - it’s about transforming society so that both people and nature can thrive. I couldn't be more ready for the challenge ahead. And I know that alongside you and thousands of others in Friends of the Earth, we have the power to make a real difference.
