SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 6, 2025 - Kia America and The Nature Conservancy Team Up to Safeguard U.S. Freshwater Ecosystems
In a significant move toward environmental sustainability, Kia America has announced a three-year, $3 million partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to support freshwater conservation across the United States. Officially launching on World Water Day, March 22, 2025, the initiative underscores Kia’s growing commitment to environmental responsibility and community engagement.
A Shared Mission to Protect Vital Water Resources
“Water is one of our most precious resources, and we have a responsibility to help protect it for future generations,” said Russell Wager, vice president of marketing at Kia America. “By teaming up with The Nature Conservancy, we’re not just funding a project – we’re supporting on-the-ground action that will make a real difference. Our goal is to inspire our customers and communities to join us in protecting the wetlands and waterways that we all depend on.”
The partnership is part of a broader global mission by TNC to conserve 1 million kilometers of rivers and 30 million hectares of lakes, wetlands, and floodplains by 2030. Kia’s investment will play a key role in advancing this ambitious goal, with efforts centered on ecological restoration and community collaboration.
Restoration, Resilience, and Cleaner Water
Kia’s funding will enable TNC to execute a range of impactful projects, including the restoration of critical wetlands that reduce flood risks, improve water quality, and create healthier habitats for wildlife.
In addition to ecological restoration, the campaign will focus on modernizing outdated water infrastructure and implementing natural solutions to improve ecosystem resilience. These strategies are designed not only to safeguard freshwater resources but also to reduce the risk of disasters and promote more sustainable agricultural practices.
Working With Communities for Lasting Impact
Importantly, Kia’s support will help TNC strengthen its work with Indigenous and local communities. These partnerships are crucial for ensuring that conservation efforts are both effective and equitable, respecting traditional knowledge and promoting long-term sustainability.
“Water is the lifeblood of the planet and rivers, lakes, and wetlands are working overtime to keep it pumping. These systems are feeding communities, shaping cultures and sustaining the diversity of life on Earth,” said Nicole Silk, Global Director of Freshwater Outcomes at The Nature Conservancy. “We must all do our part to protect these ecosystems. That’s why we are thrilled to collaborate with Kia America on this campaign. By combining TNC's expertise in conservation with Kia's innovative approach to sustainability, we aim to restore and protect freshwater habitats, support biodiversity, while also and promoting clean water access. This joint effort underscores our shared vision of a world where nature and people thrive together.”
Driving Toward a Sustainable Future
This new freshwater initiative builds on Kia America’s expanding portfolio of eco-conscious programs. The company has already taken steps to address ocean plastic pollution, and this latest partnership signals a deeper investment in environmental protection.
Through meaningful action and strategic partnerships, Kia continues to champion initiatives that support both the planet and the people who call it home.
Join the Movement for Clean Water
With climate change and environmental stressors increasingly threatening freshwater systems, Kia and TNC’s collaboration is a timely and much-needed effort. Consumers are encouraged to learn more and get involved in protecting the water sources we all rely on.
To explore how Kia is driving sustainability and to follow the progress of this conservation campaign, visit kia.com.