Step one? Break the problem down into small, easy-to-tackle components. After exhaustive research and intense vetting, we鈥檝e rounded up 31 philanthropic -organizations and innovators鈥攍ike the guy above, Wallace J. Nichols鈥攖hat have identified the planet鈥檚 most pressing needs and hatched the smartest new ideas to deal with them. Step two? That鈥檚 where you come in. Just scan our list of finalists, give your money or your time (or both), and you can take on anything鈥攆rom ocean restoration and disaster relief to microloans and smart technologies that protect wildlife, clean up the atmosphere, and jump-start poverty-ravaged economies.
The Touchy-Feely (But Totally Scientific!) Methods of Wallace J. Nichols
The sea turtle biologist thinks the key to saving the oceans could lie in our own brains鈥攁nd he wants neuroscientists to help him unlock it.
The Year of Giving Adventurously
So you're ready to act on those good intentions? Start with one of these 30 pre-vetted charities
Meet 国产吃瓜黑料's 2012 Readers of the Year. These two SoCal surfers are working to explore and protect our nation's waterways.
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Why Can't We?!
Divert floodwater to drought regions? Take sunscreen in a pill? Our experts explain.
You Need a Braincation
Studies show that being in nature is good for our mental health. Here are five good reasons to go wild.