Leonardo DiCaprio's Foundation Donates $15 Million To Global Conservation Efforts—See His Celebratory Selfie!

Actor is a longtime environmental activist

By Lily Harrison Jul 14, 2015 8:00 PMTags
Leonardo DiCaprio, Oscars Nominees LuncheonJordan Strauss/Invision/AP

It's a big day for Leonardo DiCaprio, and an even bigger day for his foundation.

Earlier today it was revealed that the actor's eponymous group provided a whopping $15 million in grants to more than 30 organizations that are aimed at conservation projects around the globe.

According to the press release, the latest grants will "support trusted nonprofits, results-driven conservation projects, and collaborative initiatives across the world." Some of the organizations involved include Amazon Watch, Save the Elephants, Tree People and the World Wildlife Fund.

DiCaprio commented on the major milestone, saying, "The destruction of our planet continues at a pace we can no longer afford to ignore. We have a responsibility to innovate a future where the habitability of our planet does not come at the expense of those who inhabit it."

His foundation now has a presence in over 40 countries and just last year, the 40-year-old was named a United Nations Messenger of Peace with a special focus on climate change for all of his tireless efforts.

The A-lister took to Instagram shortly after the news went public and posted a selfie of himself gazing at a glacier.

"We have been able to support organizations that are working to solve some of today's most pressing environmental issues. Throughout today, I'll post about a few of them and share the incredible work they do," he wrote.

"Want to put a spotlight on our beautiful planet and the things that you do to make a difference? Use #LDFoundation and I'll share a few of my favorites."

Of course, this isn't the first time that DiCaprio has helped raise millions and millions for environmental causes.

Back in 2013, DiCaprio teamed up with Christie's in New York City for the 11th Hour Auction which ended up raising an impressive $38.8 million dollars.

And then, just last year, at an Earth Day gala in Cannes, his Foundation pulled in over $25 million during a star-studded auction.

Way to go, Team DiCaprio!