WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Wildlife Federation (NWF), the country’s largest private non-profit conservation organization, and Allied World, a global provider of insurance and reinsurance solutions, have strengthened their long-standing partnership to emphasize the critical role of nature-based solutions in mitigating disaster risk. As part of this expanded collaboration, Allied World has pledged $500,000 in support of a coastal dune restoration project in Coney Island, Brooklyn.

This significant grant will enable the continued planting of native American Beach Grass in Coney Island Creek Park, a vital estuary adjacent to private homes susceptible to coastal erosion, storm surge, and sea level rise. Since 2022, this initiative – which is part of the Federation’s Resilient Schools and Communities (RiSC) program – has successfully restored over two acres of dunes through collaborative efforts with thousands of NYC public school students, teachers, community partners, and NYC Parks, a city agency.

This expanded partnership strengthens the commitment between the two organizations to elevate awareness and support for nature-based solutions that not only reduce disaster risk but also provide other benefits such as wildlife habitat preservation, improved water quality, and enhanced recreational spaces. 

“Nature-based solutions bring the power of nature to reduce risk and mitigate the worsening impacts of the climate crisis,” said Jessie Ritter, associate vice president for water and coasts at the National Wildlife Federation. “Our work with Allied World has highlighted the ways in which nature-based solutions can be implemented in backyards, neighborhoods, cities, and beyond. We’re thrilled to expand this partnership and put the benefits of nature-based solutions to work for the communities and wildlife in Coney Island.”

Allied World’s COO Wes Dupont commented, "Allied World is excited to support the work at Coney Island as it goes beyond protecting people and property from flooding and erosion and provides educational opportunities for future generations to learn about sustainable conservation practices."

Learn more about the National Wildlife Federation and Allied World’s work on nature-based solutions, including a report which highlights real examples and benefits of investing in natural infrastructure including cleaner air and water, recreational opportunities, wildlife enhancement, and economic benefits like job creation.