The Don't Make A Wave Committee originated in 1971 in Vancouver, Canada, as a grassroots organization focused on preventing nuclear testing. It emerged in response to concerns about the U.S. government's atomic tests in the Pacific Ocean, which posed threats to both marine life and global environmental stability. The committee organized protests at the nuclear testing sites and raised public awareness regarding the ecological risks associated with nuclear activities. Its grassroots efforts laid the foundation for what would become one of the most recognized environmental movements globally.

The transition to the Greenpeace Foundation occurred as the organization sought to broaden its scope beyond anti-nuclear activism. By 1972, the founders recognized the need for a more impactful name that would resonate with a global audience and reflect a commitment to broader ecological issues. Under the new banner, Greenpeace would initiate and expand various campaigns against whaling, nuclear power, and pollution, among others, establishing itself as a pivotal player in the environmental movement.

The name change represented a shift in strategy and an ambition to transcend local boundaries, uniting international efforts toward environmental conservation. With a vision to inspire global action, Greenpeace quickly gained notoriety for its high-profile direct actions and campaigns. The organization's unique approach combined peaceful protest with creative media strategies, capturing public attention and emphasizing the urgency of environmental degradation worldwide.