This printing of the revised fourth edition of Philanthropy as Stewardship: Recommended Principles & Practices for Operating in an Environmentally Responsible Manner signifies the Environmental Grantmakers Association's ongoing commitment to Philanthropy as Stewardship as a core value of the organization.

The publication seeks to promote among the EGA membership, and within the broader philanthropic community, standards and actions that are consistent with the mission of EGA. These principles were originally developed through the active participation of twenty members of the Principles and Practices Committee, two EGA Management Committees, and the EGA staff over a period of two years. This fourth edition includes the updates, suggestions, and comments of many more EGA members, including the latest available procurement information.

From the beginning, the overall purpose of this effort has been to encourage foundations to incorporate an awareness of the environmental context and consequences of their actions into their operations and general decision-making. The goal is to encourage a voluntary process of self-assessment and gradual change, rather than to create a set of criteria that distinguish the "green" from the "non-green."

Philanthropy as Stewardship consists of three components. The first is a set of "Principles," intended to form a philosophical basis for the second component, a list of recommended "Practices" that continues to evolve as new information becomes available and new thinking emerges. The third component is a "Checklist" designed to facilitate an annual self-assessment process. This booklet includes the most recent available resource information as well as new information about what foundations are doing and can do Ð particularly in the area of investment and finance.

Over the years, 65 foundations have formally voted to endorse the Philanthropy as Stewardship Principles. These foundations are listed under Endorsers. We know that many other foundations are considering endorsing the Principles, and we hope many more will decide to add their names to the list. Please note that endorsement does not mean that a foundation is actively pursuing every practice, or that it has fully realized all the Principles. By endorsing these Principles, you merely state that you are trying to take them increasingly into consideration as you make decisions and take actions that could have an effect on the environment.

Although Philanthropy as Stewardship was developed originally as a document for the EGA, its Principles are relevant for any foundation, and its recommendations and the resources listed herein can be useful in any office. Regardless of whether or when you choose to endorse the Principles formally, we hope you will find this booklet helpful, and that you will use it to make your organization more environmentally responsible.

Margaret H. O'Dell, Chair, EGA