EARTHDAY.ORG PAYS TRIBUTE TO ROBERT REDFORD: A GIANT LOST, A LEGACY THAT ENDURES.

Washington, DC (September 18, 2025) – EARTHDAY.ORG, EDO, the global leader in Earth Day advocacy, observed by over one billion people every April 22, pays tribute to the extraordinary life and legacy of screen legend and environmental campaigner, Robert Redford, who died on September 16, 2025.

For over half a century, Redford was more than an acclaimed actor— he cared deeply about the natural world and all that called it home, from boardrooms to wild landscapes, rally stages to legislatures, he used his voice, vision, and influence to inspire action at every level. His passing will reverberate throughout the environmental movement and far beyond, as those of us inspired by his advocacy mourn his loss and are grateful for his service to the planet, and humanity.

Redford’s journey as an environmental champion began in the 1970s, when he harnessed his growing fame to fight against destructive development in Utah’s wildlands. His partnership with environmental organizations led to landmark victories, from the preservation of Utah’s Grand Staircase-Escalante, to campaigning for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Redford not only advocated for protecting lands and wildlife but also amplified the fight for Native American environmental justice. He was deeply engaged with Indigenous communities, including producing films like The Dark Wind,(1991), which explores Navajo culture. Redford understood that storytelling was essential to transformative change, and he used it as an integral tool for starting global conversations on our relationship with the natural world, wildlife and the climate crisis. 

His environmental convictions infused his filmmaking, with several projects directly focused on nature and conservation.  He directed A River Runs Through It (1992), an acclaimed film about family and greed, against the backdrop of the beauty of the Montana wilderness. He narrated the IMAX documentary Sacred Planet (2004), a breathtaking voyage to some of Earth’s most endangered and beautiful locations. Redford directed The Milagro Beanfield War (1988), a story of a small southwestern town’s fight to protect local land and water.  

Redford’s advocacy was inseparable from his artistry and in 1981 he created The Sundance Institute, dedicated to cultivating and supporting independent filmmakers year-round through workshops, and mentorship.  The Sundance Festival originated from the U.S. Film Festival, and came under the Sundance Institute’s control in 1985. It provided a much needed space where activism and independent voices from the arts and film could come together and showcase their work, reflecting Redford’s belief that art and nature must thrive together.

In 2005 he founded the The Redford Center, with his son James, specifically focusing on environmental storytelling through independent documentary. The center supported dozens of films spotlighting clean energy, river restoration, and the power of grassroots conservation.  That was not all. In Utah, Redford set aside over 1,200 acres of his own land in conservation easements, protecting pristine wilderness for future generations. 

Redford is a role model for other activists—engaged, empathetic, and selfless, he reminded us all that meaningful change demands both conviction and deep compassion. EARTHDAY.ORG recognizes Robert Redford’s immeasurable contributions. His life and legacy will remain a guiding light for future generations who work to protect our planet.

“I think the environment should be put in the category of our national security. Defense of our resources is just as important as defense abroad. Otherwise what is there to defend?”

Robert Redford, Yosemite National Park Dedication, 1985

About EARTHDAY.ORG: EARTHDAY.ORG’s founders created and organized the very first Earth Day on April 22, 1970. Since then, EARTHDAY.ORG has mobilized over one billion people annually on Earth Day, and every other day, to protect the planet. EARTHDAY.ORG’s mission is to diversify, educate, and activate the environmental community worldwide.  

Media Inquiries Sarah Davies, [email protected], +1 240 463 1341