Our network is made up of a diverse, multi-sector group of organizations, universities and individuals. We include community-based and grassroots organizations, national leaders in the environment and health fields, legal and policy experts, labor organizations, green business leaders and more. See our full membership list here.

We know that all people in the U.S. today are exposed in some way to toxic chemicals put into the air, water, food and products we use. However, through both science and lived experience from frontline communities, we also know that people living in certain communities and working in certain industries are more impacted by toxic chemicals than others. We believe that any solution to our toxic chemicals crisis must begin with these communities and be driven by their leadership. We must join together to prevent cancer and protect all communities from the unnecessary burden of harmful chemicals, starting with those most impacted. As a network, we have committed to these Equity Principles. Find out more about how we’re putting these principles into action here.

As of January 2023, we have adopted membership fees based on members’ budget size.

Organizational Dues*

• $250 – operating budget size < $1 million (Full and Ally members)
• $500 – operating budget size < $3 million ( Full and Ally members) Ally member Max
• $1000 – operating budget size > $3 million Full member Max 

Pay what you can 

• Individual members – $50 suggested minimum
• Student memberships – $25 suggested dues (Student members are encouraged to inquire about whether their institution or program of study might become a network member.) 

*Fee waivers will be available upon request 

Waivers are available if these fees represent a hardship. Our members recognize that the value-add of membership greatly exceeds this small payment, and in fact many members receive grants and other funding from the network. For example, CFE’s Building Power & Action Fund supports the ability of POC-led and Community-based organizations and leaders to provide leadership and guidance to network efforts. 

Most CFE members are non-profit organizations and universities. We will also consider membership applications from B-Corps. While other businesses and government entities are not typically eligible for membership, individuals who work with businesses and government entities committed to our network values are invited to participate. Individual membership may also be appropriate for people whose organization is unsure about whether to join the network and to those who work independently on related issues. 

All member organizations start as Ally members, with a lower level of responsibility, as they get to know the network. After three months, Ally members may become Full members of the network. Full members agree to participate actively in at least one working group or Network project. For more information, view our Membership Guidelines.

What’s the greatest benefit of CFE membership? The first thing that comes to mind for most members is the chance to work with and learn from experts and stakeholders across the country working in a variety of sectors. But there are many more benefits of CFE membership. For more information, view our 2023 Membership Benefits.

CFE does expect members to help with fundraising for the Network in various ways as appropriate and at capacities that work for each organization or individual. Learn more about our fundraising principles here.