Corporate Social Responsibility

John Hendricks launched Discovery Channel in 1985 with a mission to satisfy curiosity and make a difference in people's lives by providing the highest-quality, nonfiction content, services and products that entertain, engage and enlighten; and he chose the globe to represent Discovery's brand as a symbol of the company's commitment to protecting and celebrating planet Earth.

In keeping with this mission, Discovery Communications is committed to being a thoughtful and responsible corporate citizen, supporting the extension of science, environmental and other educational programs in the U.S. and abroad, and promoting the value of nonfiction content and documentary filmmaking across all genres.

Located outside of the nation's capital, Discovery Communications' global headquarters has been awarded Platinum-level Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by the U.S. Green Building Council - one of only nine existing structures in the U.S. to receive Platinum certification and the first existing building in Maryland to be awarded any level of certification.

Most recently, with the launch of Planet Green, the first ever 24-hour television network dedicated to helping people live a green lifestyle, Discovery continues to deepen its commitment to inspire people around the world to embrace environmental responsibility through quality entertainment and informational programming.

Discovery Communications' key corporate social responsibility initiatives include the Discovery Channel Global Education Partnership, the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge, and the annual SILVERDOCS: AFI/Discovery Channel Documentary Festival.