Social Actor # 4 - Non-Governmental Organizations

There are a range of non-governmental organizations who act as advocates for workers, their communities, and the environment. These groups extend their efforts to better educate the public about their causes and also serve as a considerable lobbying force for political action. Many of these groups have become more active in recent years as the government has become more reluctant to introduce new legislation.

It is important to note that non-governmental organizations have historically been more focused on environmental causes than on workplace safety issues. Groups such as Greenpeace and the Sierra Club are well known for their efforts to protect the environment. Although organizations that promote worker safety exist, they are not nearly as visible as the groups noted.

A recent trend has seen some environmental advocacy groups beginning to partner with unions. These so-called "blue-green" alliances may eventually result in more emphasis being placed on occupational safety and health causes.