The Environmental Defence Society (EDS) is a professionally run, independent, not-for-profit environmental group that was established in 1971 and is committed to improving environmental outcomes for all New Zealanders. EDS brings together the disciplines of science, planning, landscape and the law. It operates as a think-tank, providing thought leadership on key environmental issues as well as representing the environment before councils and the courts. EDS is located at the collaborative and business aware end of the environmental movement, seeking constructive engagement with all sectors, to achieve good environmental and economic outcomes for all New Zealanders. It has influence. It also plays an education role, helping business, councils, community groups and iwi to better understand best practice resource management. EDS runs national and regional conferences and seminars on topical issues.